What Is Labyrinthitis?

Labyrinthitis is an inner ear infection that causes dizziness or vertigo, nausea, and in some cases temporary or long-term hearing loss. It typically occurs after a virus or infection and can lead to inflammation or irritation of the labyrinth. The labyrinth is the inner ear system responsible for hearing and balance. Hearing and balance are affected when the brain tries to make sense of mismatched information between the healthy nerves within the labyrinth and the inflamed nerves.

What Is the Difference between Vertigo and Labyrinthitis?

The difference between vertigo and labyrinthitis is that vertigo is a symptom of labyrinthitis, which causes a person to experience their surroundings as if it is spinning or moving. Labyrinthitis is inflammation of the labyrinth, or inner ear system.

Symptoms

Symptoms of labyrinthitis have a sudden onset, with symptoms usually lasting anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Symptoms tend to be more intense the first few days and gradually fade over time. Some symptoms resolve on their own, while other symptoms may require treatment, such as medications.

Common symptoms include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Vertigo (sensation that the room or your surroundings are spinning)
• Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or clicking in the ear)
• Loss of balance or equilibrium
• Hearing loss
• Vision problems
• Issues with concentration

What Triggers Labyrinthitis?

There are several different conditions that can trigger labyrinthitis. The most common triggers include colds or viruses. In some cases, it may be caused by a bacterial infection.

Specific triggers include:

• Respiratory illnesses, such as bronchitis
• Herpes viruses, including Epstein-Barr virus
• Viral infections in the inner ear
• Bacterial infections
• Stomach viruses
• Head injuries
• Measles, mumps, rubella
• Polio
• In rare cases, bacterial meningitis

Other triggers that put you at greater risk of developing labyrinthitis include:

• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Chronic or high stress
• Chronic fatigue
• Chronic allergies
• Certain medications (antidepressants, anti-inflammatories, and certain diabetes medications)

How Long Does Labyrinthitis Last?

In most cases, symptoms resolve in 1-3 weeks. Usually, symptoms will begin to fade in the first week; however, in more rare cases, some people will continue to experience symptoms for months, specifically with balance issues. Most people experience a full recovery. Very rarely does labyrinthitis become a chronic condition.

How Should You Sleep with Labyrinthitis?

Sleeping with labyrinthitis focuses around not turning or moving your head in any sudden movements and keeping the lighting low. It is recommended to keep the TV or any bright screens off if you are trying to sleep. Additionally, if you experience vertigo while trying to sleep, it is recommended to sit up in a chair and try to keep your head still. Low light is recommended over darkness if you are experiencing an episode of vertigo.

Treatment

Treatment is dependent on your symptoms and the severity of those symptoms. It may also depend on your age and general health. There are several different treatment options for labyrinthitis.

The most common treatments include:

• Corticosteroids (help to reduce the nerve inflammation)
• Antiviral medications
• Antibiotics (for bacterial infections)
• Medications for dizziness and nausea (such as diphenhydramine and lorazepam)

If your symptoms do not resolve in a few weeks, you may be recommended for physical therapy to do what is known as vestibular rehabilitation exercises. These exercises help your brain adjust to the vestibular imbalance.

Prevention

Labyrinthitis usually develops after a virus or bacterial infection, so the best prevention is washing your hands thoroughly. Being mindful during cold and flu season may also help to mitigate the risk of developing labyrinthitis.

When to See a Doctor for Labyrinthitis

If your symptoms are severe and persistent, it is important to contact your healthcare provider. If you experience symptoms of labyrinthitis, please schedule an appointment with an audiologist today!

In more rare cases, if you experience hearing loss, facial weakness, or a high fever, please seek medical attention immediately. Schedule an appointment with an audiologist today!