Final answer:
Ménière's disease is characterized by vertigo, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and pressure within the inner ear, caused by fluid accumulation in the inner ear structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four main features of Ménière's disease include vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus (a ringing in the ears), and a feeling of pressure within the inner ear. These symptoms are thought to be caused by an accumulation of fluid in the inner ear structures, such as the vestibule or cochlea. The progression and intensity of these symptoms can vary among patients and even fluctuate in a single patient over time.
Vertigo, the sensation of spinning or moving when one is stationary, can lead to balance issues and is a common symptom of Ménière's disease. Hearing loss, typically starting at low frequencies, worsens as the condition progresses. Tinnitus or ringing in the ears is often described as a low-frequency humming or buzzing sound. Lastly, patients might experience a sense of fullness or pressure in the affected ear, which can also fluctuate in severity.
Ménière's disease can significantly impact a person's quality of life due to these disturbing symptoms, often requiring management strategies and potentially medical intervention to control the effects on balance and hearing.