Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes vertigo, a constant ringing in the ear and affects your balance. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders estimates about 45,000 are diagnosed with Meniere's disease each year. It is commonly diagnosed in adults between 40 and 60 years of age. There is uncertainty about the exact cause of Meniere's disease, and unfortunately there is no cure. Healthcare professionals are actively researching vitamins as an alternative treatment.
Meniere's Disease
The inner ear has canals, called labyrinths, that are filled with fluid. The labyrinths contain the organs needed for hearing and for balance. Along with the nerves in your skull, the labyrinths interpret your body's position. In these canals there are sacs called endolymphatic sacs. When you have Meniere's disease the endolymphatic sacs become swollen. The swelling causes a build up of fluid in the ear and interferes with the signals to the brain for balance and hearing.
Symptoms
Meniere's disease will generally effect only one ear. The most common symptoms of Meniere's disease are hearing loss, a feeling of pressure in the ear, tinnitus, or a constant ringing in the ear, and vertigo spells. The vertigo spells can be as frequent as daily or can be sporadic. They tend to occur after a period of increased tinnitus or muffled hearing. Vertigo attacks can be severe enough to cause a loss of balance or even a fall.
Treatment
There is no known cure for Meniere's disease. However, lifestyle changes and treatments for the symptoms of Meniere's disease are options. Many healthcare professionals will suggest motions sickness medication to control the vertigo episodes. Other professionals suggest a water pill for altering fluid balances in the ear. To control symptoms, research has shown decreasing sodium intake, alcohol, stress and caffeine decreases the incidence of vertigo spells.
Alternative Treatments
There is limited and inconclusive research for treating Meniere's disease with vitamins. According to the Integrative Medicine Journal, thiamine, niacin and the B vitamins have shown some improvements in symptoms. Those who consumed 100 mg daily of vitamin B6 had a decrease in the severity of vertigo spells. Vertigo spells also improved with consuming 250 mg of thiamine or 20 mg of niacin. These results were not studied long term. Always consult your physician before starting any vitamin supplement.
