. All of these reasons may have a number of different causes. So you see why it is so difficult for your doctor to know what’s going on. Diagnosis is also very difficult. If Meniere’s is suspected, one should see a specialist who is an otologist, or at least an ear, nose, throat doctor or an ENT. Much testing may be necessary, because dizziness may be a sign of a more serious condition. Cardiovascular disorders and tumors must be ruled out. Also blood tests for other disorders, like blood sugar problems, thyroid, etc., should be done. After other possible causes are ruled out, there are tests that may show the possibility of Meniere’s. A MRI or C-T Scan lets a doctor know that there are no tumors or Central Nervous System problems, by looking at your brain and surrounding area. A possible Meniere’s disease patient may be sent to a neurologist for a complete “brain” examination. This is a normal procedure and does not mean anything is wrong. An ENG or Electronystagram is used to assess the balance system function. A patient may be asked to look at a series of things, including lights. Cool and warm water is inserted into each ear to over-stimulate the balance system causing vertigo. The patient’s reaction time to the vertigo is then measured. Many people do not like this test, but it is a very good way to assess balance system function. There is also a platform balance test in which the patient is strapped into a harness, and the floor and background are moved. A computer analyzes your balance function and reaction to the changes. The rotation chair test is a test where the patient is put in a round room in a special chair. They may be asked to look at a light, while in the dark. The chair is rotated and the patient’s reaction is measured. There’s also an ECOG, which is short for electrocochleaography. This test checks for excess pressure within the cochlea. The patient lies on a ta...
