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Labyrinthitis

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Labyrinthitis

Definition

Labyrinthitis is swelling and irritation of the labyrinth of the inner ear. The labyrinth is a series of fluid-filled tubes and sacs.

If left untreated, the condition can lead to lasting ear damage, hearing problems, and falls.

Labyrinthitis.

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Causes

Labyrinthitis may be caused by:

  • Inflammation
  • Infection
  • Trauma
  • Certain medicines

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this problem are:

  • Viral infections and allergies
  • Smoking
  • Drinking too much alcohol
  • Stress
  • Head injury
  • Blood vessel disorders
  • Problems with the immune system
  • Taking certain medicines, such as antibiotics, aspirin, and quinine

Symptoms

Symptoms can range from mild to severe. They can last for days or weeks.

Symptoms may include:

  • Tiredness
  • A feeling of spinning
  • Lightheadedness
  • Balance problems
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Problems controlling eye movement
  • Ringing in the ear
  • Hearing loss

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the ears. The person may be referred to a doctor who treats ear problems.

The doctor will do hearing tests.

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Treatment

Any underlying cause will need to be treated. This problem usually goes away on its own with time. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms. Options are:

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.

Medicine

Medicines to control symptoms may be:

  • Antiemetics—to control nausea and vomiting
  • Vestibular suppressants—to limit the spinning sensation (vertigo)
  • Steroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)—to help control inflammation
RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Labyrinthitis. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/labyrinthitis.
  • Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis. Vestibular Disorders Association website. Available at: https://vestibular.org/article/diagnosis-treatment/types-of-vestibular-disorders/labyrinthitis-and-vestibular-neuritis.
  • Le TN, Westerberg BD, et al. Vestibular neuritis: recent advances in etiology, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment. Adv Otorhinolaryngol. 2019;82:87-92.
  • Vestibular neuronitis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/vestibular-neuronitis.

Contributors

  • Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated:
2022-09-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.