Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the labyrinth in the inner ear. The labyrinth is a system of cavities and canals in the inner ear that affects hearing, balance, and eye movement.

Causes include:

• Viral or bacterial infection (most common cause)
• Head injury
• Tumor in the brain or head
• Disease of blood vessels
• Stroke
• Nerve problems
• Side effects of drugs, including:
  • Aminoglycoside antibiotics
  • Aspirin
  • Quinine

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for labyrinthitis include:

• Current or recent viral infection (especially a respiratory infection)
• Allergies
• Smoking
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Stress

The symptoms can range from mild to severe and last for days or many weeks. Symptoms are usually temporary, but rarely, can become permanent.

The most common symptoms are:

• Vertigo (spinning sensation)
• Dizziness

Other symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hearing loss
• Involuntary eye movement
• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Initial diagnosis is based on the symptoms and the results of your exam.

Tests may include:

• Examination of the middle ear for signs of a viral or bacterial infection
• Hearing tests
• Electronystagmogram—a test of eye movement
• CT scan or MRI scan —to look at structures in the head

Treatment may include:

• Antibiotics (only for bacterial infection)
• Medication to control the symptoms, including:
  • Antiemetics—to control nausea and vomiting
  • Vestibular suppressants—such as meclizine, to help control loss of balance and dizziness
  • Steroids—in limited situations, to help control inflammation
  • Anti-viral medication (eg, Acyclovir)– this may be prescribed by your physician

Note: Without antibiotic treatment, bacterial labyrinthitis can lead to permanent hearing loss or permanent problems with balance.

• Rest, lie still with your eyes closed in a darkened room during acute attacks.
• Avoid movement, especially sudden movement, as much as possible.
• Avoid reading.
• Resume normal activities gradually after the symptoms have cleared.

In some cases, nausea and vomiting cannot be controlled. This can result in severe dehydration , which may require hospitalization to receive intravenous fluids.

Rarely, labyrinthitis may be due to a break in the membranes between the middle and inner ear. Surgery to repair the break may be required. If a tumor is causing the condition, surgery may also be needed.