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.
Has anyone experienced blurred vision following a labyrinthectomy? If so, how long did it last? Thanks.
SueHutch
I haven't heard of that as yet, but maybe someone has. I've been participating in a chemical labrythectomy (injecting gentamicin into ear via a tube), so no ill effects as yet after three treatments. I will go for the surgery if this doesn't turn out as expected! Hope you are doing well otherwise. I'm always curious to hear from those who have had the surgery.
Maine14
I have since discovered that blurred vision is a side effect of the scopolamine patch that they gave me to wear in the hospital for nausea. As for the recovery from surgery, it is tough. Lots of nausea and dizziness. And pain in and around the ear (pain is about the same as when I got gentamicin injections). I start vestibular rehab therapy next week and am hoping that I will start to recover more quickly once that starts. On the plus side, I am able to get around my house now without the cane but I do use it when I go outdoors. Balance is slowly improving too.
SueHutch
GREAT news! So, I'm assuming the gentamicin injections didn't work for you so you went for the surgery. How long did you try the gentamicin before giving up on it? And, sorry for all the questions...what state did you have the surgery in?
dbduca
I have blurred vision when I am dizzy with MD.
georgiapeachy
I am now 2 years post labyrinthectomy for Meniere's. I have had no vertigo since the surgery so I am very happy about that. However, regaining balance has not been as good for me. I saw my neurotologist today and she said I have not compensated for the loss of the balance system in my left ear and at this point, I won't. 1 in 4 people do not compensate well following labyrinthectomy surgery. I still walk with a cane when I am outdoors but walk in the house without the cane. Things that can worsen my balance include weather conditions, stress, fatigue, not sleeping well. Most of the time I do fine, but I have days where my balance is much worse and I rest more on those days. I am currently 69 y/o so my age may play a role in not compensating so well. Those who are younger do tend to compensate sooner and better, so be encouraged in that. For me, I remain thankful that I have been free of vertigo for 2 years! It is great!
Maine14
Georgia, so glad to hear that you have been vertigo free for 2 years. That is such good news! And isn't that the main reason we get the labyrinthectomy?! But sorry to hear about your balance. I too find that I need rest days. I am 64 and my balance is coming along, 3 months post-surgery. But there's still a long road ahead.
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