Patient education: Labyrinthitis (The Basics)

What is labyrinthitis? — Labyrinthitis is a condition that causes sudden dizziness and balance problems. People with this problem also feel nauseous and might vomit.

Often, people feel very ill for a few days and then start to feel better. But sometimes, the symptoms last for weeks.

What causes labyrinthitis? — Doctors are not sure what causes labyrinthitis. The symptoms seem to be related to swelling or another problem with the nerve inside the brain that controls hearing and balance. In some people, labyrinthitis happens during or after an infection from a virus. But most people with labyrinthitis do not have symptoms of an infection.

What are the symptoms of labyrinthitis? — The symptoms include:

●Feeling like you are spinning, swaying, or tilting – You might also feel like the room is moving around you. This is a type of dizziness called "vertigo."

●Nausea

●Vomiting

●Problems with balancing and walking

●Hearing loss or ringing in 1 ear

If you have all of these symptoms except hearing loss, the condition is called "vestibular neuritis."

Is there a test for labyrinthitis? — No. But your doctor or nurse should be able to tell if you have it by learning about your symptoms and doing an exam.

Your doctor might do tests to make sure that you do not have a different problem. These include imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. These tests take pictures of your brain and inner ear. They are normal in people with labyrinthitis.

How is labyrinthitis treated? — Labyrinthitis can make you feel very sick. But it is not dangerous. The symptoms of labyrinthitis typically improve after a few days, even without treatment. Most people feel completely better within a few weeks.

Treatment can help relieve your symptoms while you recover. It might also help you recover faster. The treatment depends on your symptoms, how long they have lasted, and what likely caused your labyrinthitis.

Your doctor might prescribe medicines that can:

●Treat infections caused by a virus

●Reduce swelling around the nerves inside the brain

●Treat symptoms of vertigo

●Treat nausea and vomiting

While you are still having symptoms, drink plenty of fluids. Also, try to avoid falls. Move slowly, and ask for help if you feel off balance. Do not drive if you feel dizzy.

If your symptoms last more than a few weeks, your doctor might refer you to a physical therapist (exercise expert). They can teach you special exercises to help with your balance.

More on this topic

Patient education: Vertigo (a type of dizziness) (The Basics)
Patient education: Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) (The Basics)

Patient education: Vertigo (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) (Beyond the Basics)