What is Labyrinthitis?

Posted by Healthfitline On Sunday, May 5, 2013
Labyrinthitis is an inflammation or swelling of the inner ear. The most common cause of Labyrinthitis is the viruses. However, it can also occurs as a complication from a bacteria infection such as Otitis Media, when the bacteria spreads from the middle ear to the inner ear.
 
Labyrinthitis Causes and Risk Facts
The following are causes and risk factors that increases your chances of acquiring Labyrinthitis;
 
  • Infection of the middle ear (Otitis Media).
  • Mumps and rubella viral infections
  • Upper respiratory tract viral infections 
  • Herpes Varicella Zoster Virus infection (Ramsay Hunt Syndrome) - a disorder that is characterized by pain and paralysis of the facial nerves.
  • Excessive consumption of alcohol
  • Allergies
  • Stress and smoking
  • Medications - Aspirin 
Labyrinthitis Symptoms
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness 
  • Vertigo - lack of balance and a sensation as if you are moving or spinning around. 
  • Ringing (tinnitus) or hearing some voices inside your ears. 
  • Temporary hearing loss that may start with one ear. 
Labyrinthitis Complications 
Possible complications associated with Labyrinthitis include; 
  • Permanent loss of hearing 
  • Head injury due to failing during a vertigo attack.
Labyrinthitis Diagnostics 
  • Physical examination and patient history - The doctor check your ears and ask you questions about the symptoms that you are experiencing. 
  • Neurological examination may also be performed to rule out other possible causes. 
  • Balance test - posturography 
  • Hearing tests - audiometry  
  • CT scan and MRI 
  • Brain function tests like electroencephalogram or EEG may also be performed. 
  • Caloric stimulation - the nerves of the inner ear are irrigated with warm or cold to access the degree of the ear damage or involvement of the brainstem.
Labyrinthitis Treatment
Treatment of Labyrinthitis involves use of antibiotics if the infection is caused by a bacteria. Labyrinthitis resulting from a viral infection is treated based on the symptoms that you are experiencing.
 
In some cases, Labyrinthitis does not require any treatment and usually heals by its own after a few weeks. Other medications that are used to treat other symptoms may include; 
 
  • Medications to stop vomiting 
  • Antihistamines to treat allergies  
  • Fluid replacement to prevent dehydration 
  • Medications to relieve dizziness episodes 
Labyrinthitis Prevention 
There is no way you can protect yourself from getting Labyrinthitis. However, limiting your movement, resting during the period of attacks, avoiding triggers like bright right and slowly moving from sitting to standing position may prevent your from getting injured or symptoms becoming worse. 
 
Labels: Diseases and Conditions, home, Labyrinthitis

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