Meniere disease (MD) is a disorder of the inner ear that is characterized by episodes of
vertigo
,
tinnitus
, hearing loss, and fullness in the ear. Typically, only one ear is affected initially; however, over time both ears may become involved. Episodes generally last from 20 minutes to a few hours. The time between episodes varies. The hearing loss and ringing in the ears can become constant over time. The cause of Meniere disease is unclear but likely involves both genetic and environmental factors.
Although Meniere's disease can affect people of any age, people in their 40s and 50s are much more likely to experience it.