Description
A disorder of the middle ear that causes dizziness, room spinning (vertigo), and nausea/vomiting. The symptoms become worse with head movement, and lessen by keeping the eyes closed. Vestibular neuronitis can occur during an ear infection or an upper respiratory infection. Sometimes no cause is determined. The symptoms usually resolve after a few days. Also known as labyrinthitis.
Symptoms
Dizziness, room spinning (vertigo), nausea and vomiting, loss of balance, hearing loss in the affected ear, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), involuntary eye movements (nystagmus).
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests will be done to establish the diagnosis if the symptoms do not resolve on their own
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Hearing testing, Caloric stimulation testing
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests will be done to establish the diagnosis if the symptoms do not resolve on their own
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Hearing testing, Caloric stimulation testing
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
Treatment
Antihistamines, anticholinergics, anti-emetics (anti-nausea medications), and/or benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam) may be used.