Stages of Meniere's Disease

Meniere's disease is a condition of the inner ear. Bouts of vertigo and vomiting are often associated with the disease. These symptoms are caused by damage to the inner ear, which has an important role in balance.

Stage I

• The first stage of Meniere's disease is characterized by attacks of dizziness and vertigo. Hearing in the affected ear may be distorted during these attacks.

Stage II

• Stage II is marked by hearing loss and tinnitus. Dizziness and vertigo are also found the second stage of Meniere's disease.

Stage III

• Hearing becomes so distorted that recognizing speech becomes difficult, according to HealthInsite.gov.au. In Stage III, balance in one ear has been all but destroyed, leaving the patient with bad balance when walking.

Both Ears

• Ten percent of persons with Meniere's disease are affected in both ears at the disease's beginning, according to HealthInsite. Forty percent will develop the disease in both ears as it progresses, according to the site.

Treatment

• In the disease's early stages, salt intake and stress should be reduced, as these have been shown to cause attacks of vertigo. Hearing aids or balance lessons may be needed as the disease progresses.