Q If I have Meniere's disease, will I eventually lose my hearing? Is there a way to stop the progression?
A Hearing can gradually decline as attacks recur, but reducing attack frequency early and managing your lifestyle thoroughly can slow the progression. Not every patient progresses to severe hearing loss.
Detailed Answer
In Meniere's disease, hearing initially drops only during attacks and then recovers, but as attacks recur, gradual permanent hearing loss can develop. The low frequencies usually decline first, and over a long time it may extend to the high frequencies. However, some patients follow a mild course for decades or more. Reducing attack frequency, a low-salt diet, and stress management are key to preserving hearing. If hearing has declined severely, a hearing aid is considered.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we believe that reducing the attacks themselves is most important for preserving hearing. Kidney deficiency is directly linked to hearing in the Korean medicine theory that the Kidney governs the ear (the Kidney opens into the ear). By reinforcing Kidney essence (sinjeong) through tonifying the Kidney, and resolving inner ear fluid-dampness stagnation through draining water and resolving phlegm, we lengthen the interval between attacks, which we believe can slow the rate of hearing decline. Over the long term, maintaining ear health is one of our treatment goals.
Related FAQs
-
Q
Can Meniere's disease be completely cured, or is it a condition I have to manage for life?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
I'm constantly anxious because I never know when an attack will come, and I can't even go out anymore. Is psychological distress also something you treat?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
What happens if Meniere's, which started in one ear, spreads to the other ear as well?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
When a severe vertigo attack suddenly hits, what should I do right away at home?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
What daily habits are important for preventing Meniere's attacks in everyday life?
#Lifestyle Management