Meniere’s Disease is an inner-ear balance disorder that causes attacks of vertigo (a sense of spinning) along with other symptoms, including tinnitus (noise in the ear or head that’s not audible to others), aural fullness (a feeling of pressure, or even pain, in the ear) and fluctuating hearing loss. Secondary symptoms that typically occur during a prolonged attack include nausea, vomiting, headache, confusion, and intense fatigue. There may be other symptoms as well, such as watering eyes, excessive postnasal drip, diarrhea, and slurred speech. Attacks can last a few minutes, a few hours, or even several days.
Over time, hearing loss may become constant, although some individuals experience very little hearing loss.
If you have been diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease or another inner-ear balance disorder, consider joining our Meniere’s Support Group. Recent meetings have included group discussions, guest speakers and video presentations on Meniere’s Disease.
Meetings are held the fourth Monday of the month from 11:00 a.m. until noon, from September to November, and January to June at the Access River East building, 975 Henderson Highway. For more information call 204-975-3037 and leave a message for a call-back, or email menieres-group@mts.net. Following is the meeting schedule for the 2011/2012 season:
| September 26 | October 24 | November 28 |
| January 23 | February 27 | March 26 |
| April 23 | May 28 | June 25 |
Here are two suggested web sites where you can find more information about Meniere’s disease as well as links to additional sites:
There are many types of balance disorders, and many of them have similar characteristics such as spinning vertigo and nausea. But they are not all the same, and require different treatment approaches. The best way to find out what is causing your dizziness/vertigo is to be referred to doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating these conditions. An ear/nose/throat specialist or a neurologist can often isolate the cause and recommend a treatment approach that will bring relief.