What Increases Your Risk

Because the cause of Ménière's disease is unknown, it is difficult to predict who will get the condition. You may be at higher risk for getting Ménière's disease if you have:

• Another family member who has this condition.
• An autoimmune disease (such as diabetes, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis), which occurs when the immune system attacks the body.
• Had a head injury, especially if it involved your ear.
• Had viral infections of the inner ear.
• Allergies. People with Ménière's disease may be more likely to have allergies than people who do not have Ménière's disease.