Meniere's Syndrome

Blakiston's Pocket Medical Dictionary defines Meniere's syndrome as "a disease of the internal ear characterized by deafness, vertigo and tinnitus (ringing in the ears), frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting and nystagmus (an oscillating movement of the eyeballs)."

Conventional medicine treats Meniere's syndrome primarily with oral drugs. If that fails, surgery to cut certain nerves or to remove part of the inner ear is often suggested.

Holistic medicine has quite a successful record in treating Meniere's syndrome. As always, the particular presentation of the individual is taken into account and is treated accordingly. I have found that a combination of acupuncture and herbs is usually most effective, though other modalities, such as ear coning and homeopathy, sometimes are helpful adjuncts.

Let me present you with a typical case. George came to see me about five years ago after Meniere's began interfering with his ability to do his job. He had worked construction for most of his life, was often up on a roof, and, at 63, felt that he was not yet ready to retire full-time. His primary symptoms were dizziness and high-pitched ringing in the ears that came and went. He also noticed that the "dizzies" and the ringing were worse in dry weather. He stated that he got overheated easily and suffered from hypertension, These symptoms, plus others, led me to a Chinese medical diagnosis of Kidney/Adrenal Yin Deficiency, with Yang Rising. To be extremely simplistic, this means that the fluids of the body are drying out and creating an internal imbalance. A combination of acupuncture and herbs completely alleviated the dizziness and mitigated the ringing somewhat as well. At five years later, he continues to maintain well and is still working part-time.

If you have a problem with Meniere's syndrome or another condition that is causing you concern, you are welcome to call me for a free phone consultation at 858/673-1397.

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Rancho Bernardo Sun/ Diamond Gateway Signature
November 1999