Before leaving the Presidential wing for his trip abroad on Monday, President Muhammadu Buhari had a brief chat with journalists. He confirmed what was already announced by his spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, that he was going abroad to seek treatment for a persistent ear infection. Although the president has been treated by a physician and an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist, he was advised to travel out of the country for more extensive care. Reports have alleged that the president suffers from Ménière’s disease.

What is Ménière’s disease?

This is an ailment of the ear which is caused by excess fluid in the inner ear. Ménière’s disease affects only one ear and it is characterised by the loss of balance and hearing. Some of the known symptoms are vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus (a persisting ringing sound). While this disease can lead to permanent hearing loss, environmental and dietary changes can lessen its severity.

Will Ménière’s disease incapacitate the president?

Although specialists claim that vertigo, which can last for hours can be incapacitating and severe, it can be cured by taking good quality supplements, a change of life style and a healthy diet. According to experts, the supplements enable the body to deal with the inflammation in the inner ear efficiently by supporting its immune system with all the nutrients it needs to tackle the oxidative stress and free radicals causing the hydrops.

One of the survivors of the Ménière’s did a study on his lifestyle choices in connection with the disease. He discovered that the tinnitus was caused by fungal infections and as he lowered his sugar intake and increased the use of probiotics, garlic supplements as well as vitamins, the symptom reduced drastically. This suggests that the president, with the appropriate treatment, may return in ten days to continue with his duties without risks.