Labyrinthitis and vertigo

There are a number of different possible causes for vertigo and one of these is Labyrinthitis. This refers to an inflammation of the inner ear that could be caused by a number of different factors. This inflammation occurs in the labyrinth structures within the inner ear and to understand why this is a problem it will first be necessary to examine the function of these labyrinths.

The inner ear is part of the vestibular system. This vestibular system is responsible for telling the brain where we are in relation to the space around us. So if we are sitting down the vestibular system will send a signal say we are sitting down and if we are standing up it will sent a signal to indicate this is well; in fact every movement that we make should be picked up by the vestibular system and sent to the part of the cerebellum responsible for managing these signals.

The labyrinths play an important part in the vestibular system. Inside these structures is fluid and this fluid is monitored by nerve cells that look like tiny hairs. Every time we move it causes the fluid to move and this movement is picked up by the nerve cells. This is then turned into a signal that is sent to the brain. For most people this system will work almost flawlessly, and it is not something that we need to consider until we have problems such as vertigo that warn us that something has gone wrong with this vestibular system. Vestibular system and what is vertigo

Labyrinthitis can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection, but it can also be caused by a head injury, stress, drug side-effect, or an allergic response. As well as having the usual symptoms of vertigo which include the sensation of spinning, swimming vision, nausea and vomiting, and involuntary eye movements, and swooshing noises; it is also likely to involve some hearing loss, and tinnitus.

It can take up to six weeks to recover from labyrinthitis; sometimes people can have residual symptoms that last for months or even years afterwards because the inflammation has caused some damage to the ear.

The usual treatment for labyrinthitis is most often similar to that of other forms of vertigo; the drugs will focus on combating the unpleasant sensations caused by vertigo. It may also be necessary to begin corticosteroids in an attempt to bring down the inflammation that might be causing damage within the labyrinth structures. If symptoms persist for a long time then a treatment option might be vestibular rehabilitation therapy. Homeopathic remedies have also been shown to produce good results. Homeopathic remedies and what you can do with vertigo

Labyrinthitis is just one of a number of possible causes for vertigo. This symptom can be quite unpleasant but in most instances medications will reduce its occurrence as you wait for the labyrinthitis to resolve. Any vertigo attack can be frightening, but the important thing is to remain safe while it is happening. If you can you should lie down on the ground to prevent falls, if you are driving then stop as safely as you can.

See also: