LABYRINTHITIS – Etiology, Risk Factors, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnostic Evaluations and Management
Labyrinthitis is a disorder of the inner ear. The two vestibular nerves in the inner ear send information to brain about head movement. When one of these nerves becomes inflamed, it creates a condition known as labyrinthitis.
ETIOLOGY
Labyrinthitis can happen to people of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Respiratory illnesses (such as bronchitis)
- Viruses of the inner ear
- Stomach viruses
- Herpes viruses
- Bacterial infections (including bacterial middle ear infections)
- Infectious organisms (like the one that causes Lyme disease)
RISK FACTORS
- Smoking
- Drink large quantities of alcohol
- Have a history of allergies
- Are habitually fatigued
- Extreme stress
- Over-the-counter medications
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Loss of hearing
- Vertigo
- Loss of hearing
- Vertigo can interfere with driving, working and other activities
- Loss of balance
- Tinnitus
- Difficulty focusing eyes
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
Labyrinthitis can be diagnosed during a physical examination
- Hearing tests
- CT or MRI scan of the head to record images of cranial structures
- EEG (brain wave test)
- ENG (eye movement test)
- Blood test
MANAGEMENT
Symptoms can be relieved with medications, including:
- Antihistamines like clarinex or allegra, Benadryl, and Claritin
- Medications that can reduce dizziness and nausea, such as antivert
- Sedatives like diazepam
- Corticosteroids, to reduce the inflammation
In addition to medications, there are several techniques use to relieve vertigo
- Avoid quick changes in position or sudden movements
- Sit still during a vertigo attack
- Get up slowly from a lying down or sitting position
- Avoid television, computer screens and bright or flashing lights during a vertigo attack
- If vertigo occurs while you are in bed, try sitting up in a chair and keeping head still. Low lighting is better than darkness or bright lights
