Meniere’s Disease
Ménière’s disease is a vestibular disorder that produces a recurring set of symptoms as a result of abnormally large amounts of a fluid called endolymph collecting in the inner ear. The exact cause of Ménière’s disease is not known. The four classic symptoms are vertigo, tinnitus, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, and fluctuating hearing.
More info: Ménière’s Disease
Canalith Repositioning Maneuver (CRM)
Treatment intended to move displaced otoconia from the affected semicircular canal to the utricle-used in the treatment of BPPV.
More info: Canalith Repositioning Procedure (for BPPV)
Hydrops
Distention of the labyrinth with fluid, a likely component of Meniere’s Disease.
More info: Secondary Endolymphatic Hydrops (SEH)
Placebo-Controlled
A research study where one group of participants receives a fake treatment, the results of which are compared with the real treatment.
More info: Getting Involved In Research
Autoimmune Inner Ear Disorder
When a virus attacks, the immune system defends the body. When the immune system malfunctions, its defense capabilities sometimes mistake the body’s own cells for invading viruses or germs and attack them, which is referred to as autoimmunity. The immune system can attack the whole body or just certain systems, including the ear. When the ear is itself attacked, this is known as autoimmune inner ear disease.
More info: Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease
Chronic
A disease or symptom that is long-lasting.
Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP)
A test that measures postural stability, or the ability to maintain upright posture in different environmental conditions. Often used in vestibular assessment and treatment.
More info: Tests For Diagnosing Vestibular Disorders
Epley Maneuver
Treatment designed to address posterior canal BPPV.
More info: Canalith Repositioning Procedure (for BPPV)
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
An autoimmune disease of the brain and spinal cord that may cause vestibular and/or balance systems symptoms, such as imbalance and problems walking.
Neurologist
Diagnoses and treats disorders of the brain and nervous system. They do not perform surgery, but they can recommend surgical treatment by an otolaryngologist, neurotologist, or neurosurgeon.
More info: Healthcare Specialties
Neuropathy
Disease of nerve cells, can be the cause of decreased sensation in the limbs which may further complicate balance for those with vestibular disorders.
Semont Maneuver
Treatment designed to address posterior canal BPPV, canalithiasis or cupulolithiasis.
More info: Single Treatment Maneuvers for BPPV
Randomized Study
A research study where participants are randomly assigned to a group that will either get the experimental treatment or the placebo.
More info: Getting Involved In Research
Otolaryngologist
Physicians and surgeons who diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures.
More info: Healthcare Specialties