Dizziness: Meniere's Disease and Calcium Channel Blockers

Dizziness issues

I have been experiencing tinnitus for over a year, and a hearing test revealed severe hearing loss in my left ear.
In the past six months, I have frequently experienced dizziness, which can be severe enough to feel like the world is spinning, accompanied by nausea, similar to Meniere's disease.
An otolaryngologist prescribed a medication that is known to be a calcium channel blocker.
I have osteoporosis and am taking calcium supplements, so I am unsure if the dizziness is related to taking calcium supplements (since they contain calcium ions).
Otherwise, why would the doctor prescribe a calcium channel blocker? Can this medication be taken long-term to manage dizziness?

A-Hsien, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/24

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, Ah-Hsien.
Dizziness can have numerous potential causes: 1) If accompanied by a dull pain in the left posterior part of the head, it may suggest poor blood circulation in the head and neck.
2) If there are symptoms of ear fullness, ear pressure, or hearing loss, it may indicate sudden sensorineural hearing loss, Meniere's disease, or acute labyrinthitis.
3) If turning the head exacerbates the symptoms, it may suggest benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
Other possible diagnoses include vestibular neuritis, migraine-associated vertigo, orthostatic hypotension, hyperlipidemia, and intracranial lesions, among others.
Regarding the calcium channel blocker mentioned in the text (possibly referring to a medication for blood pressure), I cannot provide a precise answer without knowing the specific medication name.
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek further evaluation and treatment from an otolaryngologist or a neurologist.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/05/24

More Info

Understanding dizziness, particularly in the context of Meniere's disease, can be quite complex. Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can lead to episodes of vertigo (a sensation of spinning), tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. The exact cause of Meniere's disease is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to abnormal fluid dynamics in the inner ear.

In your case, you have been experiencing tinnitus for over a year and have significant hearing loss in your left ear, along with frequent episodes of dizziness that can be severe. These symptoms align with Meniere's disease, which is characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo and fluctuating hearing loss.

The medication prescribed by your ENT specialist, which is a calcium channel blocker, is often used to help manage the symptoms of Meniere's disease. Calcium channel blockers work by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into cells, which can help reduce the excitability of the inner ear structures and potentially alleviate symptoms such as vertigo. The use of these medications can be beneficial in controlling the frequency and severity of dizziness episodes.

Regarding your concern about calcium supplements, it is important to note that while calcium is essential for bone health, excessive calcium intake can lead to various issues, including potential interactions with other medications. However, the calcium channel blocker prescribed to you is designed to block calcium from entering cells, which is different from the calcium you are taking as a supplement. Therefore, the dizziness you are experiencing is unlikely to be directly caused by your calcium supplements.

As for the long-term use of calcium channel blockers, this is generally determined by your healthcare provider based on your individual response to the medication and the severity of your symptoms. Some patients may require long-term treatment to manage their Meniere's disease effectively, while others may find that their symptoms improve over time, allowing them to reduce or discontinue medication.

It's also essential to monitor your symptoms closely and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you notice any changes in your symptoms or experience side effects from the medication, you should discuss these with your doctor. They may consider adjusting your treatment plan or exploring other options if necessary.

In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications can also play a role in managing Meniere's disease. These may include dietary changes, such as reducing salt intake to help manage fluid retention, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and managing stress levels. Keeping a diary of your symptoms can also help identify triggers and patterns, which can be useful for both you and your healthcare provider in managing your condition.

In conclusion, while your symptoms of dizziness and tinnitus may be concerning, they are not uncommon in the context of Meniere's disease. The calcium channel blocker prescribed to you is a standard treatment option aimed at alleviating these symptoms. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations and maintain regular check-ups to ensure that your treatment plan remains effective and appropriate for your condition.

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