Q I've been told to get an intratympanic steroid injection, but I'm scared and reluctant. Can I expect a similar effect from Korean medicine treatment?
A An intratympanic steroid injection rapidly suppresses inflammation, but it is an invasive procedure. Korean medicine treatment can play a complementary role in reducing attack frequency by improving inner ear circulation and resolving phlegm-fluid, and it is an option you can try first if you are hesitant about the injection.
Detailed Answer
An intratympanic corticosteroid injection is a procedure for moderate to severe Meniere's disease that suppresses inner ear inflammation and immune responses to reduce attacks. Its effect is recognized, but because it involves an injection directly into the ear, the psychological burden is significant. It is safer than destructive procedures (intratympanic gentamicin injection, labyrinthectomy), but it is not necessary for every patient.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we recommend trying Korean medicine treatment first before deciding on an invasive procedure. We resolve phlegm-fluid and restore inner ear lymph circulation with Banha-baekchul-cheonma-tang and Taeksa-tang, while using acupuncture at points around the ear—Cheonggung (SI19), Imun (TE21), Yepung (TE17), and Wangol (GB12)—to improve inner ear circulation. If attack frequency does not noticeably decrease with acupuncture and herbal medicine, or if hearing loss progresses, we guide patients to combine treatment with otolaryngology procedures.
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