 Excess
fluid in the inner ear
The exact cause of Ménière’s disease is not known.
Research has linked the symptoms of Ménière’s to an
excess of fluid in the inner ear that disturbs the balance and hearing
organs.
The inner ear is composed of:
- three semicircular canals and otolith organs - these control balance
- the snail-shaped cochlea - this is the hearing organ
Within the cochlea there are two types of fluid separated by membranes:
- endolymph - rich in potassium
- perilymph - rich in sodium
In Ménière’s disease there is too much endolymph
fluid in the inner ear. This condition of excess fluid is referred to
as endolymphatic hydrops.
The pressure from this excess fluid interferes with the functioning of
the delicate cells that are responsible for balance and hearing. Hearing
loss and tinnitus (abnormal noise in the
ear) are the result. As the disease progresses the cells become irreparably
damaged.
Many people with Ménière’s can actually feel the
fluid building up and the feeling of fullness this produces. Sudden movement
of this excess fluid is the most likely cause of the attacks of vertigo
(dizziness) that are typical of Ménière’s.
What causes the fluid build up?
The mechanisms that control the secretions of endolymph fluid are unknown.
Many factors appear to cause endolymphatic hydrops (excess fluid) in the
inner ear. The most common are:
- Auto-immune reactions
- Allergic responses
- Autonomic nervous system imbalances
- Blockages and/or damage to the endolymphatic structures
- Dietary deficiencies
- Viral infections
- Vascular (circulation) irregularities
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Last reviewed March 2008
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