Labyrinthitis and Vestibular Neuritis

What is it? 

Labyrinthitis is a condition involving inflammation or infection of the labyrinth of the inner ear.  Associated symptoms can include vertigo, hearing loss, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, tinnitus (ringing in your ears), visual disturbance, and imbalance.   

Vestibular neuritis is a condition involving inflammation or infection of the vestibular nerve, which communicates between the inner ear and the brain.  Associated symptoms are similar to that of labyrinthitis but usually do not include hearing loss or tinnitus.  

These conditions are more often viral than bacterial.   Treatment may include antivirals, steroids, and antibiotics.  Medication, such as Meclizine, may also be prescribed to treat nausea or dizziness.   

Symptoms can occur without warning and last from days to weeks.  The outcome is generally good with recovery over time and with vestibular physical therapy.  

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/labyrinthitis-and-vestibular-neuritis