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This treatment is based on the concept that the reduction of levels of endolymphatic fluid can also reduce associated symptoms. Fluid levels can be controlled by various methods, including:

• Reducing intake of salt - sodium causes the body to retain fluid and many clinicians believe that reducing sodium intake will reduce the endolymphatic fluid volume as well. Most physicians recommend a daily sodium intake of not more than 1,500-2,000 mg.

• Diuresis - by increasing urination, it is thought that endolymphatic fluid volume is reduced. Drugs that increase urination are called diuretics and include:

  • furosemide (Lasix)
  • amiloride (Midamor)
  • hydrochlorothiazide (Esidrix)

Reducing endolymph by restricting sodium intake and administration of diuretics has been used since the 1930s, and continues today based on studies conducted in the 1960s. Although some patients report an improvement in symptoms, the efficacy of this therapy has not been replicated since that time and maintaining a low salt diet has not been validated as a treatment for Meniere's disease. Even so, it continues to be recommended as a first step of treatment by many physicians.

Patients taking diuretics are monitored for indications of any side effects which may include:

• Hypokalemia - low potassium concentration in the blood
• Hyperglycemia - elevated blood sugar levels
• Hyperuricemia - buildup of uric acid in the blood
• Hypotension - low blood pressure
• Hypolipoproteinemia - low levels of lipoprotein and cholesterol in the blood