Labyrinthitis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Vestibular vertigo)

Labyrinthitis is an inner ear condition characterized by inflammation of the labyrinth, the part of the ear responsible for coordinating balance.

Gray920

Introduction and Causes[edit | edit source]

The labyrinth is a delicate structure located in the inner ear that helps control balance and hearing. Inflammation in this region, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, can result in labyrinthitis. The most common viral causes include flu, mumps, measles, and herpes viruses. Bacterial labyrinthitis, though rarer, is usually a result of bacterial meningitis or a middle ear infection.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

  • Symptoms of labyrinthitis include:
  • Vertigo: A sensation of moving or spinning when you're standing still
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Tinnitus: Ringing or buzzing noise in the ears
  • Hearing loss
  • These symptoms can range from mild to severe, with the potential to significantly disrupt daily activities due to balance difficulties.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and review of medical history. Clinicians may check for signs of involuntary eye movement (nystagmus), balance issues, and hearing loss. Additional tests such as MRI or CT scans may be employed to rule out other conditions.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of labyrinthitis focuses on managing symptoms and treating the underlying cause. Antiviral or antibacterial medications may be used to treat the infection. Symptomatic treatment can include drugs for nausea, antihistamines, and medications to reduce dizziness and vertigo. In some cases, vestibular rehabilitation therapy might be recommended to improve balance.

Prognosis and Long-Term Effects[edit | edit source]

In most cases, labyrinthitis resolves within a few weeks, and hearing usually returns to normal. However, in rare cases, the condition can cause permanent hearing loss or chronic vertigo.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of labyrinthitis is often related to maintaining general good health. This includes practices such as hand hygiene to avoid infection and keeping the immune system strong through healthy diet and regular exercise.

References[edit | edit source]

Labyrinthitis Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD