Dear Drs. Donohue and Roach: I recently was diagnosed with Meniere's disease. I had two violent vertigo episodes last year, about three weeks apart. These consisted of dizziness, sweating and uncontrolled vomiting. I have not had any attacks since.
I have been following the doctor's recommendation of a sodium intake of 2,000 milligrams or less per day, no caffeine, no more than three alcoholic drinks per week and keeping my stress level down. If a person does this, can they (hopefully) expect no more attacks? Just thinking of this puts me under stress. Will you explain Meniere's disease to me?
N.W.
Meniere's disease is caused by swelling in the inner ear, where the organ that controls balance is located. The swelling causes vertigo and tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and can lead to hearing loss. The ringing can be in one or both ears, and symptoms do not all have to be there at the same time. As in your case, there usually are frequent, repeated attacks.
Because the organ of balance in Meniere's disease becomes swollen with fluid and sodium, a low-sodium diet is the correct treatment. Many people get relief from diuretics if the low-sodium diet is inadequate. Reducing caffeine, alcohol and stress makes sense because all these things may trigger an attack.
The course of Meniere's disease is unpredictable, but the fact that you haven't had any attacks in a year with this treatment is a good sign.
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