Effectiveness of Multimodal Intervention on Audiological and Psycho-Social Profile of Meniere’s Disease: A Case Study

Abstract

Meniere’s disease (MD) is a chronic disorder of the inner ear that is characterized by intermittent attacks of loud tinnitus, a sense of pressure in the ear, vertigo and progressive permanent hearing loss in one or both ears. Anxiety and dizziness occur as co-morbid symptoms in a larger percentage of patients than would be expected from chance alone. The individual profile of Meniere’s disease in different patients makes it difficult to diagnose on the basis of symptomatology alone. The impact of Meniere’s disease on quality of life has highlighted the importance of an additional approach to support the diagnosis and intervention of Meniere’s disease. In this study, we discussed about the interface between Meniere’s disease, its audiological manifestations and psycho-social factors influencing the Quality of life. The two conditions are linked by overlapping neural circuits that include monoaminergic pathways and the parabrachial nucleus network, and they are functionally related via both somatopsychic and psychosomatic mechanisms. A unique strategy for patient management is discussed in this paper. The results confirmed that vertigo can the most debilitating symptom in Meniere’s disease. Correlating the clinical features of subject with Audiologic, Vestibular, Yogic and Psychological evaluation highlighted the clinical value of an interdisciplinary team approach for diagnosis and intervention.

Effective patient management requires a better understanding of the physiological and psychological nature of the disease, as well the relationship that exists between the factors. The development of a generally acceptable plan for diagnosis and treatment poses a challenge for clinicians involved in the care of this condition. Therefore, we must constantly update our knowledge through interdisciplinary teamwork and research for the benefit of our patients with the help of increased understanding of the pathophysiology and psychophysiology of MD patient, management may become more effective.