Labyrinthitis (Dizziness And Vertigo)
Description
A disorder of the middle ear that causes dizziness, room spinning (vertigo), and nausea/vomiting. The symptoms become worse with head movement, and lessen by keeping the eyes closed. Labyrinthitis can occur during an ear infection, with an upper respiratory infection or after a head injury. Sometimes no cause is determined. The symptoms usually resolve after a few days.
Symptoms
Dizziness, room spinning (vertigo), nausea and vomiting, loss of balance, hearing loss in the affected ear, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), involuntary eye movements (nystagmus).
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests may be done to rule out other causes of dizziness or vertigo including a head CT scan, MRI scan, hearing testing (audiology/audiometry), and/or caloric stimulation (tests reflexes of the inner ear).
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. Antihistamines, anticholinergics, sedative-hypnotics, anti-nausea medications, and/or benzodiazepines may all be used.
Related Videos
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Labyrinthitis (Dizziness and vertigo)?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.