Description
A disorder of the inner ear caused by irritation and swelling that results in dizziness, room spinning (vertigo), and nausea/vomiting. The symptoms typically become worse with head movement, and lessen by keeping the eyes closed. Labyrinthitis can occur during or just after an ear infection, with an upper respiratory infection or after a head injury. Often, no cause is determined. The symptoms usually resolve within a few days.
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. Tests may be done to rule out other causes of dizziness or vertigo including a head CT scan, MRI scan, hearing testing (audiology/audiometry), and/or caloric stimulation (which tests reflexes of the inner ear).
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Hearing testing, Caloric stimulation testing
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests may be done to rule out other causes of dizziness or vertigo including a head CT scan, MRI scan, hearing testing (audiology/audiometry), and/or caloric stimulation (which tests reflexes of the inner ear).
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Hearing testing, Caloric stimulation testing
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. Antihistamines, anticholinergics, sedative-hypnotics, anti-nausea medications, and/or benzodiazepines may be prescribed.