Columnists

Meniere’s Disease and Research

Issue 13.17

Volunteers play a significant role in the development and progression of treatment for Meniere’s disease.  Meniere’s disease can be difficult to treat.  A greater knowledge of this disease can help us to prevent and control it.  This knowledge is obtained through clinical research.  Participants in clinical research are the “front-line” champions in the medical world.  Every life-saving treatment started with a volunteer.

Meniere’s disease is an inner ear problem affecting both hearing and balance.  It can occur in one or both ears.  The symptoms associated with Meniere’s disease can be very uncomfortable and may include dizziness, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear.  The symptoms of Meniere’s disease are known to wax and wane but over time may permanently damage the inner ear.

Meniere’s disease can’t be cured but medications are available to try and decrease symptoms.  Surgery isn’t usually preferred but is an option to reduce the fluid and pressure in the inner ear.  Changes to diet such as eating low-salt foods and reducing caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco consumption might help reduce the number of attacks a person may experience.

Treatment for Meniere’s disease continues to evolve with the ultimate goal of finding a cure.  Volunteers in research play a significant role in the development and progression of treatment for Meniere’s disease.  Our area is fortunate to have several physician groups conducting a variety of clinical trials to improve treatment in several therapeutic areas.  Chrysalis Clinical Research coordinates research for physicians and is currently enrolling trials for Meniere’s disease along with diabetes, and shingles.

Participating in research can be a great place to start if you have Meniere’s disease and want to understand it better.  All trial related materials, tests, medications, and study related visits with our providers and research team are free.  Patients may also be compensated for time and travel.  Study related visits include examinations by Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists and Audiologists.   Participants will gain a better understanding of Meniere’s disease and how to appropriately manage it with both medication and lifestyle modifications.

For more information or to see if you might qualify for a clinical trial and help us bring new innovative drugs/devices to market contact Chrysalis Clinical Research at 435 656 1704 or visit our webpage www: sgccr.com.

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