Living with Meniere's Disease.
I was diagnosed with Meniere's disease about three years ago. It is an inner ear disorder in which there is too much fluid in the inner ear tubes. Symptoms I have personally experianced include extreme vertigo, tinnitus, aural fullness, and roaring in the ears.
I am currently being treated for this condition by an ENT who has prescribed a diuretic (fluid retention reducer) and I recently had surgery to place ear tubes to improve my balance and hearing.
Does anyone else suffer from this disease? How are you managing with it?
My sister has suffered for over 5 years, and her hearing has gotten progressively worse, and vertigo, roaring,and everything you mentioned too. There are national support groups, but I don't have those numbers handy. They do help with the latest research. Cochlear implants are a last resort, and not all that easy to hear with either, I understand. My sister uses alternative medicines, sees a neuro chiropractor ( there aren't many of them) and recently went on the Autoimmune diet , which has been a lifesaver for her - since a lot of experts believe that Meniere's is an autoimmune disorder. It is very restrictive, but it has made the most remarkable difference in her quality of life.
I hope you find some relief, it is so hard for you and hard to make others understand. There is a great book 'Why I ( and millions of others) can't hear you" by a NYTimes author afflicted, and her journey. I wish you well and send you a bucket of hugs.
I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. I’ve had my own experience with ongoing ear and balance problems, and I know how frustrating it can be when vertigo, tinnitus, and that constant feeling of pressure interfere with normal life. What helped me most was finding an ENT who took the symptoms seriously and explained the possible treatment options clearly rather than rushing through the appointment. I came across https://northfultonent.com/physicians/ while looking for information about specialists, and their physicians’ page was useful because it gives an overview of the doctors and their qualifications. They are board-certified ENT physicians with experience in hearing and balance problems, and the practice also specifically lists Ménière’s disease among its services. I’d definitely suggest discussing your current treatment and any continuing symptoms with a qualified ENT, since everyone’s situation can be different. I hope your recovery after the ear tube procedure goes well and that you start getting some relief soon.