Noises in the Head While Lying Down: A Meniere's Disease Perspective

Q: Noises in the Head While Lying Down: A Meniere's Disease Perspective

Hello： The definitive diagnosis of Meniere's disease is not easy. <br>If you have already been examined and diagnosed, you should consider appropriate treatment. <br>You mentioned experiencing a "tinnitus" sound, which can sometimes be caused by pressure imbalances due to posture

When lying flat while sleeping for a while, I hear a tapping sound in my head, but it doesn't happen when I lie on my side?

Hello Doctor: I currently have Meniere's disease, and my doctor has prescribed medications for peripheral vascular circulation disorders and anti-nausea medications.
The dizziness has improved, but recently when I lie flat to sleep and am about to fall asleep, I hear a thumping sound in my head, which does not occur when I lie on my side.
This is quite bothersome.
Additionally, when I squat for a while and then stand up, I also experience dizziness.
What could be the reason for this? I exercise regularly and have consulted a doctor about anemia, which I do not have.
I have undergone a health check-up, and my echocardiogram showed mitral valve prolapse with mild regurgitation, mild tricuspid regurgitation, and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction.
Could this be related? Thank you, Doctor!

Xiao Sheng, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/09/08

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology

Hello: The definitive diagnosis of Meniere's disease is not easy.
If you have already been examined and diagnosed, you should consider appropriate treatment.
You mentioned experiencing a "tinnitus" sound, which can sometimes be caused by pressure imbalances due to posture, often observed in cardiovascular patients.
Your echocardiogram also shows similar findings, so it is important to pay attention to circulatory issues.
It is recommended to consult both an otolaryngologist and a cardiologist, as there may not be a single underlying cause for your symptoms, and careful management is necessary.
Sincerely, Hsu Chia-Chen.

Reply Date: 2012/09/08

More Info

Understanding noises in the head while lying down, especially in the context of Meniere's disease, can be quite complex. Meniere's disease is characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. The noises you are experiencing, particularly the "pulsating" sounds in your head when lying flat, could be attributed to several factors related to your condition and overall health.

Firstly, the noises you hear while lying down may be related to changes in blood flow or pressure in the inner ear. When you lie flat, the position can alter the dynamics of blood circulation and fluid distribution in the inner ear, which is crucial for balance and hearing. This can exacerbate the symptoms of Meniere's disease, leading to increased tinnitus or the perception of sounds that are not externally present. The fact that you do not experience these noises when lying on your side may indicate that the position affects how your inner ear responds to changes in pressure or blood flow.

Additionally, the dizziness you experience upon standing after squatting could be related to orthostatic hypotension, a condition where blood pressure drops significantly when changing positions. This can lead to dizziness and lightheadedness, especially if there are underlying cardiovascular issues, such as the mitral valve prolapse and mild regurgitation you mentioned. These heart conditions can sometimes affect how efficiently blood is pumped throughout your body, particularly during sudden movements, which may contribute to your symptoms.

Moreover, the medications prescribed for Meniere's disease, such as those for peripheral vascular circulation and anti-vertigo medications, can have side effects that might influence your overall sensation of balance and auditory perception. It's essential to discuss any new or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan or investigate further for any underlying issues.

In terms of lifestyle adjustments, maintaining a healthy diet low in sodium can help manage Meniere's disease symptoms, as high sodium intake can lead to fluid retention, exacerbating inner ear pressure. Staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine and alcohol may also be beneficial. Regular exercise is important, but be cautious with movements that could trigger dizziness.

Lastly, if the noises in your head or the dizziness upon standing persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek further evaluation. This may include additional tests to assess your cardiovascular health, balance function, and inner ear status. A comprehensive approach involving an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT), a cardiologist, and possibly a neurologist may provide a clearer understanding of your symptoms and the best management strategies.

In summary, the noises in your head while lying down and the dizziness upon standing could be interconnected with your Meniere's disease and other underlying health conditions. It is vital to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers to ensure that all aspects of your health are considered in your treatment plan.

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