Diseases and Conditions
Meniere's disease
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Complications
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Coping and support
Preparing for an appointment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Certain self-care tactics can help reduce the impact of Meniere's disease. Consider these tips for use during an episode:
- Sit or lie down when you feel dizzy. During an episode of vertigo, avoid things that can make your signs and symptoms worse, such as sudden movement, bright lights, watching television or reading. Try to focus on an object that isn't moving.
- Rest during and after attacks. Don't rush to return to your normal activities.
- Be aware you might lose your balance. Falling could lead to serious injury. Use good lighting if you get up in the night. A cane for walking might help with stability if you have chronic balance problems.
Lifestyle changes
To avoid triggering a vertigo attack, try the following.
- Limit salt. Consuming foods and beverages high in salt can increase fluid retention. For overall health, aim for less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium each day. Experts also recommend spreading your salt intake evenly throughout the day.
- Limit caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. These substances can affect the fluid balance in your ears.