Endolymphatic hydrops: understanding the condition and available treatments
During my time as an Audiologist, I have encountered many patients who suffer from endolymphatic hydrops, a condition that can cause a range of hearing and balance symptoms. In this article, you’ll learn an overview of the condition, its causes, and the available treatments to better understand endolymphatic hydrops and what you can do to manage it.
What is Endolymphatic hydrops?
Endolymphatic hydrops is a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of fluid in the inner ear, leading to swelling and stretching of the membranes that surround it. The inner ear is responsible for detecting sound waves and transmitting the signals to the brain. It also plays a critical role in maintaining our balance. When the inner ear is damaged, it can cause hearing and balance problems, leading to a range of symptoms such as vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
The exact cause of endolymphatic hydrops is still not fully understood. However, researchers believe that it may be caused by a combination of factors including genetics, age, and exposure to certain triggers such as stress, infections, or head trauma. In some cases, the condition may also be linked to other inner ear disorders such as Meniere's disease.
Diagnosing endolymphatic hydrops requires a thorough evaluation by an Audiologist or an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist. This may involve a series of tests, including a hearing test, a balance test, and imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. In some cases, a special test called electrocochleography (ECOG) may also be performed to measure the electrical activity in the inner ear.
The treatment for endolymphatic hydrops depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause. In some cases, the condition may resolve on its own over time, and no treatment is necessary. However, for patients with more severe symptoms, there are a number of treatments that can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.
Medications: For mild cases of endolymphatic hydrops, medications such as anti-nausea drugs and vestibular suppressants can help reduce symptoms such as vertigo and nausea.
Dietary Changes: Making changes to your diet such as reducing salt intake, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and increasing fluid intake can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the frequency of attacks.
Surgery: In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended. One common procedure is called a vestibular nerve section, which involves cutting the nerve that transmits signals from the inner ear to the brain. Another option is called a shunt procedure, which involves creating a new pathway for the excess fluid to drain out of the inner ear.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy, such as vestibular rehabilitation therapy, can help improve balance and reduce symptoms such as vertigo.
Managing Endolymphatic Hydrops
Managing endolymphatic hydrops requires a multi-faceted approach that involves not only medical treatment but also lifestyle changes. By working closely with your Audiologist or ENT specialist, you can develop a treatment plan that works best for you.
In conclusion, endolymphatic hydrops is a condition that can cause hearing and balance problems. While it can be a difficult condition to live with, there are a range of treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Related reading
References:
Ferster, A. P. C., Cureoglu, S., Keskin, N., Paparella, M. M., & Isildak, H. (2017). Secondary endolymphatic hydrops. Otology & neurotology: official publication of the American Otological Society, American Neurotology Society [and] European Academy of Otology and Neurotology, 38(5), 774.
Gluth, M. B. (2020). On the relationship between Meniere's disease and endolymphatic hydrops. Otology & Neurotology, 41(2), 242-249.
Gürkov, R., Pyykö, I., Zou, J., & Kentala, E. (2016). What is Meniere’s disease? A contemporary re-evaluation of endolymphatic hydrops. Journal of neurology, 263, 71-81.
