Meniere’s Disease
Meniere’s disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that causes recurring episodes of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the affected ear. Our specialized vestibular physiotherapists help manage symptoms and improve quality of life between episodes.
Understanding Meniere’s Disease
Classic Symptoms Triad
- Episodic Vertigo: Severe spinning sensation lasting 20 minutes to 12 hours
- Hearing Changes: Fluctuating hearing loss, typically low frequencies initially
- Tinnitus: Ringing, buzzing, or roaring sounds in the affected ear
- Aural Fullness: Pressure or fullness sensation in the ear
Episode Characteristics
Episodes typically:
- Come on suddenly with little warning
- Last from 20 minutes to 12+ hours
- Include severe vertigo with nausea and vomiting
- Leave residual imbalance for days after
- Occur in clusters followed by remission periods
How Physiotherapy Helps
Between Episodes
- Balance Training: Improving stability and confidence
- Compensation Exercises: Helping the brain adapt to vestibular changes
- Fall Prevention: Strategies to maintain safety during vulnerable periods
- Lifestyle Counseling: Identifying and managing triggers
During Recovery
- Vestibular Rehabilitation: Accelerating recovery after episodes
- Gaze Stabilization: Restoring visual focus during head movement
- Habituation Training: Reducing sensitivity to movement
- Functional Retraining: Returning to daily activities safely
Treatment Approach
Our vestibular specialists use:
- Advanced diagnostic equipment (ICS Impulse and Vesticam)
- Customized exercise programs for your stage of disease
- Coordination with ENT specialists and neurologists
- Education about condition management
- Strategies for coping with unpredictable episodes
Expected Outcomes
With proper management:
- Reduced impact of episodes on daily life
- Improved balance between episodes
- Better coping strategies for attacks
- Enhanced confidence in movement
- Reduced fall risk
- Improved overall quality of life
When to Seek Treatment
Contact us if you experience:
- Recurring vertigo episodes
- Progressive hearing changes
- Persistent imbalance
- Fear of falling
- Difficulty returning to normal activities after episodes
