Labyrinthitis: Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

What is labyrinthitis?

Labyrinthitis is an inner ear disorder, characterised by inflammation of the membranes within the labyrinth (a structure within the inner ear that plays a crucial role in hearing and balance). This inflammation can then disrupt signals from the ear to the brain – which can result in symptoms such as vertigo and hearing loss.

How is labyrinthitis caused?

Labyrinthitis is most commonly caused by viral infections, however other factors can also contribute:

• Bacterial infections: Untreated infections within the middle ear can spread into the inner ear.
• Autoimmune conditions
• Stress and/or fatigue
• Allergic reactions
• Head trauma or injury

What are the symptoms of labyrinthitis?

Labyrinthitis affects both your hearing and balance. This is due to inflammation on the inside of the organ that is responsible for our sense of hearing and balance. The symptoms themselves can vary in intensity and duration, with examples including:

• Vertigo – a sensation of spinning
• Nystagmus – the eyes drifting to one side then quickly flicking back
• Nausea
• Motion sensitivity
• Tinnitus
• Hearing loss
• Other symptoms of a general viral infection

Typical symptoms last only for a few days, to a couple of weeks. If any symptoms persist after this, ensure you liaise with a healthcare provider for more information. 

How can labyrinthitis be treated?

The treatment of labyrinthitis depends on what caused it initially and focuses on relieving the symptoms whilst the body focuses on recovery. However, the main options of treatment are:

• Symptom management: Focusing on minimising and mitigating the effects the symptoms can have. This will involve a lot of rest to avoid any sudden movements, avoiding any bright lights that could harm your eyes, keeping hydrated to prevent dehydration from vomiting. Lastly is vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which is physical therapy exercises designed to help retrain balance.
• Medications: Certain medications can be used to help treat labyrinthitis symptoms, such as anti-nausea medicine, antihistamines to reduce vertigo, antibiotics if infection is present and antiviral medications if the cause is believed to be viral.
• Long term management: If permanent hearing damage occurs, options such as hearing aids can help manage the condition. Treatment may also involve addressing any underlying hearing loss and making lifestyle changes - such as reducing alcohol, caffeine and smoking - which can help prevent symptoms from worsening.

Labyrinthitis vs vestibular neuritis – what’s the difference?

Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis are commonly confused with each other, however, they do differ slightly.

• Labyrinthitis is the inflammation of the inner ear (labyrinth) membranes, whereas vestibular neuritis is the inflammation of the vestibular nerve that carries signals from the labyrinth to the brain.
• Hearing loss is a common symptom of labyrinthitis, whereas vestibular neuritis does not affect hearing.