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 was diagnosed with Menieres 8 years ago. Right now I'm on a diuretic with valium, phenergan and meclizine to be used as required and it is required more and more often.On the 19th of December I had a cortisone injection in my bad ear--the one with the loud rushing noise and only 30% of my normal hearing--and it did absolutely nothing. My ENT asked me if I wanted another shot in the same ear, saying that sometimes the second one works (and sometimes it doesn't). Can other people tell me if theirs has worked. Also today I had to call my husband to pick my up from the library parking lot because I had another vertigo attack and my husband asked me if I thought maybe it was time to give up my drivers license. When is it time? This is the first time he's had to do that. Just wondering......
As far as the driving goes, I gave up my license the first time I had an attack while driving. It was terrifying as my 4m old daughter was with me. That was almost 3 years ago now. It is hard because I'm only 27 and a young mom so I'm completely dependent on my husband for all things. I had to quit my job around that time as well.
Best wishes. It's not easy to have the disease progress
I can't help you about the injections because so far I have avoided them. People have not had much long term success and I have too many other health issues so I really wouldn't feel much better.
As far as driving goes. I made the decision to drive as little as possible so I would not have to surrender my license. It got serious when one of my doctors informed me she was required to report dangerous drivers. So I only drive about 10 miles at the most and try to always have someone drive me in the city. I have been able to take advantage of public transportation. You just put on your "bus pants" and figure out the routes. :). We also got a train in orlando that stops at my work. So what I am saying is you can limit your driving without surrendering your license. The most important thing is your safety and the safety of others.
Hope that helps.
Kerry