Meniere’s syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops):

Meniere’s syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops):

Meniere's syndrome, also known as Meniere's disease or endolymphatic hydrops, is a disorder of the inner ear that affects the individual's sense of balance and hearing. It is characterized by recurring episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a feeling of pressure or fullness in the affected ear.

Causes of Meniere's Syndrome

The exact cause of Meniere's syndrome is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development:

Endolymphatic fluid imbalance

The accumulation of excess endolymphatic fluid in the inner ear is believed to play a role in Meniere's syndrome. The reasons for this fluid imbalance are not yet clear.

Genetic predisposition

There may be a genetic component to Meniere's syndrome, as it can sometimes run in families.

Autoimmune factors

Some researchers believe that autoimmune reactions or disorders may contribute to the development of Meniere's syndrome.

Vascular factors

Changes in blood flow to the inner ear may also be involved in the development of Meniere's syndrome.

Symptoms of Meniere's Syndrome

Meniere's syndrome is characterized by a combination of symptoms that can vary in intensity and frequency from person to person:

Vertigo

Recurrent episodes of severe dizziness or spinning sensations that can last from minutes to hours. These episodes are often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Hearing loss

Fluctuating hearing loss, which may affect one or both ears. The hearing loss may be temporary or permanent.

Tinnitus

Persistent ringing, buzzing, or roaring sounds in the affected ear.

Aural fullness

A sensation of pressure or fullness in the affected ear, similar to the feeling of having a plugged ear.

Diagnosis of Meniere's Syndrome

Diagnosing Meniere's syndrome involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, typically an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist). The diagnosis is based on the presence of characteristic symptoms and the exclusion of other possible causes.

The diagnostic process may include:

Medical history

The healthcare provider will inquire about the individual's symptoms, their frequency and duration, and any triggers or patterns associated with the episodes.

Physical examination

A thorough examination of the ears, nose, and throat will be conducted to assess any signs of fluid accumulation, inflammation, or other abnormalities.

Hearing tests

Audiometry and other hearing tests may be performed to evaluate the extent and nature of hearing loss.

Balance tests

Vestibular function tests, such as electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG), may be conducted to assess the function of the inner ear and the vestibular system.

Imaging studies

In some cases, imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be ordered to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Note: Evaluate Meniere’s syndrome either under these criteria or by separately evaluating vertigo (as a peripheral vestibular disorder), hearing impairment, and tinnitus, whichever method results in a higher overall evaluation. But do not combine an evaluation for hearing impairment, tinnitus, or vertigo with an evaluation under diagnostic code 6205.