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Definition
Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the labyrinth in the inner ear. The labyrinth is a system of cavities and canals in the inner ear that affects hearing, balance, and eye movement.
Labyrinthitis
2008 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.
Causes
Causes include:
- Viral or bacterial infection (most common cause)
- Head injury
- Tumor in the brain or head
- Disease of blood vessels
- Stroke
- Nerve problems
- Side effects of drugs, including:
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics
- Aspirin
- Quinine
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for labyrinthitis include:
- Current or recent viral infection (especially a respiratory infection)
- Allergies
- Smoking
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Stress
Symptoms
The symptoms can range from mild to severe and last for days or many weeks. Symptoms are usually temporary, but rarely, can become permanent.
The most common symptoms are:
- Vertigo (spinning sensation)
- Dizziness
Other symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hearing loss
- Involuntary eye movement
- Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Initial diagnosis is based on the symptoms and the results of your exam.
Tests may include: Examination of the middle ear for signs of a viral or bacterial infectionHearing testsElectronystagmograma test of eye movementCT scan or MRI scan to look at structures in the head TreatmentTreatment may include: MedicationsAntibiotics (only for bacterial infection) Medication to control the symptoms, including: Antiemeticsto control nausea and vomitingVestibular suppressantssuch as meclizine, to help control loss of balance and dizzinessSteroidsin limited situation, to help control inflammationNote: Without antibiotic treatment, bacterial labyrinthitis can lead to permanent hearing loss or permanent problems with balance. Self-Care MeasuresRest, lie still with your eyes closed in a darkened room during acute attacks.Avoid movement, especially sudden movement, as much as possible.Avoid reading.Resume normal activities gradually after the symptoms have cleared. Emergency Treatment In some cases, nausea and vomiting cannot be controlled. This can result in severe dehydration , which may require hospitalization to receive intravenous fluids. SurgeryRarely, labyrinthitis may be due to a break in the membranes between the middle and inner ear. Surgery to repair the break may be required. If a tumor is causing the condition, surgery may also be needed.
Prevention To reduce your risk of getting labyrinthitis: Seek prompt treatment for any ear problems or infection.Get medical advice on treating respiratory infections.Avoid head injury by wearing seat belts and safety helmets.Ask your doctor about side effects of any medication youre taking.Avoid alcohol. Take steps to prevent blood vessel disease or stroke. These include: Eat a low fat, low cholesterol diet . Dont smoke . If you have high blood pressure , get it treated. If you have diabetes , work closely with your doctor to keep it under good control. With your doctor's approval, exercise regularly . RESOURCES: National Library of Medicinehttp://www.nlm.nih.gov/ Vestibular Disorders Associationhttp://www.vestibular.org CANADIAN RESOURCES: BC Health Guidehttp://www.bchealthguide.org/ Canada Health Portalhttp://chp-pcs.gc.ca/CHP/index_e.jsp References: National Library of Medicine website. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/ .
The Merck Manual of Medical Information. 17th ed. Simon and Schuster, Inc; 2000. The Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Northwestern University website. Available at: http://www.northwestern.edu/csd/programs/index.html . Last reviewed December 2007 by Elie Rebeiz, MD, FACSPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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