Meniere's syndrome is a recurrent or progressive group of symptoms characterized by hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness and a sensation of pressure in the ear. The attacks occur suddenly.

The cause of the condition is unknown.

The condition is characterized by violent, paroxysmal (sudden, and recurring) attacks of severe vertigo lasting from minutes to hours. The signs and symptoms may include: severe vertigo, tinnitus, and sensorineural hearing loss. Other associated symptoms are nausea; vomiting; sweating; giddiness; and nystagmus (see Diagnostic Code: 6016 Nystagmus); imbalance; and falling to the affected side. The condition is characterized as progressive with episodes that may occur over several years.

Tests may include audiometric studies, electronystagmography (ENG), and x-rays. Laboratory tests may be indicated: FTA-ABS, glucose tolerance test, thyroid function tests, serum cholesterol and lipoproteins.

Specific medications are used depending on the severity of the attack. Long-term management includes diuretics or vasodilators, and restricted sodium intake. Antihistamines and mild sedatives may also be used. If the condition persists for more than two years and is associated with incapacitating vertigo, vestibular neurectomy or labyrinthectomy may be required.

Residuals may include tinnitus and permanent neurosensory hearing loss.

• Compensation is payable for the combinations of service-connected and nonservice-connected disabilities specified in 38 CFR 3.383(a)(3) (see below) as if both disabilities were service-connected, provided the nonservice-connected disability is not the result of the veteran's own willful misconduct.
• Hearing impairment in one ear compensable to a degree of 10 percent or more as a result of service-connected disability and hearing impairment as a result of nonservice-connected disability that meets the provisions of 38 CFR 3.385 in the other ear.
• May be entitled to special monthly compensation where the veteran has a single service-connected disability rated as 100% with additional service-connected disability or disabilities independently ratable at 60% or more, which are separate and distinct from the 100% service-connected disability and involves different anatomical segments or bodily systems. See  38 CFR 3.350(i)(1) – Total plus 60% – Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).

Notes

•  Evaluate Meniere's syndrome either under these criteria or by separately evaluating vertigo (as a peripheral vestibular disorder), hearing impairment, and tinnitus, whichever method results in a higher overall evaluation. But do not combine an evaluation for hearing impairment, tinnitus, or vertigo with an evaluation under diagnostic code 6205. (38 CFR 4.87 [Schedule of ratings-ear])