Facts on Meniers Disease

Menier's disease is a condition that affects that inner ear and causes hearing and balance problems. The condition was named for Prosper Menier, the physician who, in 1861, first described the effects of inner ear problems on vertigo. The disease typically makes a slow progression, beginning with one symptom and slowly adding others. Not all of the symptoms need to be present before a diagnosis can be made.

History

• Though first described in 1861, it was not until 1972 that the American Academy of Ontolyngology officially recognized and put forth criteria for diagnosing Menier's disease.

Effects

• The effects of Menier's disease can be unpredictable and include periodic episodes of vertigo, hearing loss and pressure in one or both ears.

Prevention/Solution

• While there is no cure for Menier's disease, symptoms are usually treated by reducing sodium in the diet, with lipoflavinoids, antihistamines, and, in severe cases, surgery to decompress the sac behind the inner ear.

Fun Fact

• For unknown reasons, some sufferers of Menier's disease suddenly stop experiencing symptoms and make a full recovery after being sick for ten or more years.

Famous Ties

• Several famous people are thought to have suffered from Menier's disease, including poet Emily Dickinson, astronaut Alan B. Shephard, Roman emperor Julius Caesar and actress Marilyn Monroe.