Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears. Diagnosing Meniere's disease can be difficult, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions.
Diagnosing Meniere's Disease
The diagnosis of Meniere's disease is based on a patient's medical history, physical examination, and test results. Because the symptoms of Meniere's disease can be similar to those of other conditions, it is important to rule out other causes of the symptoms before making a diagnosis.
Hearing Tests
Hearing tests, such as audiometry and otoacoustic emissions, can help diagnose Meniere's disease. During an audiometry test, the patient wears headphones and listens to tones of different frequencies and intensities. The test measures the patient's hearing thresholds and ability to distinguish different sounds. Otoacoustic emissions measure how the inner ear responds to sound.
Balance Tests
Balance tests, such as electronystagmography (ENG) and vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP), can be used to help diagnose Meniere's disease. During an ENG test, the patient is asked to focus on a target while a warm and cool liquid is poured into the ear canal. This test measures the eye movements that occur in response to the change in temperature. VEMP is a test that measures the response of the muscles in the neck to sound.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, can help diagnose Meniere's disease. An MRI can be used to visualize the inner ear and can detect any fluid accumulation. A CT scan can also be used to identify any abnormal structures in the inner ear.
The diagnosis of Meniere's disease is based on the patient's medical history, physical examination, and test results. It is important to rule out other causes of the symptoms before making a diagnosis. If you think you may have Meniere's disease, it is important to talk to your doctor.