Meniere's Disease Support Group
Meniere's disease is a balance disorder of the inner ear. The symptoms of Meniere's are variable; not all sufferers experience the same symptoms. However, "classic Meniere's" is considered to comprise the following four symptoms: Periodic episodes of rotary vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a sensation of fullness or pressure in one or both ears.
I promised to keep you updated on my acupuncture results. Keep in mind that my MD symptoms are closely tied to my sinus allergies. During the middle of winter and the middle of summer (here in Tucson) when nothing is blooming, about the only symptom I have is tinnitus. Unfortunately that only gives me 2 months out of the year of feeling good. But at least I do get some break from the disease. Anyway, I have seen the acupuncturist 8 times now. He uses not only needles, but something he calls laser acupuncture, which is apparently very big in Germany and other parts of Europe. In years past I spent the entire month of March, and usually most of February and April as well, motionless on the sofa. I would have numerous full-blown vertigo episodes during these months. I will share that as of today I have not had a single episode of vertigo this year. I have been using my valium more aggressively than I used to. So I can't definitively say that it's the acupuncture helping. But I feel it is. I'm a stuffer. I have never had the sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, etc. My sinuses just get full, which is probably why my MD symptoms get triggered. After my session today, my nose has been running like crazy. I'm hoping that's a good thing, and will lessen the pressure in my inner ear. By the way, pollen is off the charts right now in Tucson. So the fact that, while dizzy once in a while, I haven't had any full-blown attacks is huge. I'll continue to keep you posted.
Thank you for your posting and update on acupuncture. I remember Ed Chung had said that he had some short term relief from acupucture, he even showed where and how to do this (without needles of course). May I ask which areas they are targeting? Also do you think the dry air out your way helps in the summer months? One last question, how are taking your valium, as needed, or regular dosing? It sounds like you have a good plan in the works to treat symptoms resulting in controlling attacks! You know there are several good treatments but doctors have to deside how best to administer, frequency ect. The more we know the closeer we get to the answer.
God Bless!
Rich
Hope you have a good day.