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.

Vertigo: What is it and What Causes it?

Feeling dizzy or unsteady every now and then is common, especially as we get older. But when the world feels like it's spinning or moving around you - even when you're standing still - that sensation may be something called vertigo.

Vertigo isn't an illness itself but a symptom of problems with balance, often linked to the inner ear. Understanding what causes it and when to seek help can make managing it easier and safer.

What is vertigo?

Vertigo is the feeling that you, or your surroundings, are spinning or tilting when they're not. It can last for a few seconds or minutes, but for some people, it can come and go over several days.

You might feel:

• A spinning or swaying sensation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of balance or difficulty walking straight
• A feeling of motion even when sitting or lying still

Some people describe it as being pulled to one side or feeling like the floor is moving.

What causes vertigo?

Vertigo is most often caused by problems with the inner ear, which plays an important role in controlling balance. The most common causes include:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

This happens when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear move into the wrong part of the balance canal. It often causes brief spells of dizziness when you move your head - for example, when turning over in bed or looking up.

Labyrinthitis or Vestibular Neuritis

These are infections (often viral) that cause inflammation in the inner ear or the nerve connecting it to the brain. They can lead to sudden vertigo, balance problems and sometimes hearing loss.

Ménière’s Disease

A less common cause of vertigo, often linked with hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and a feeling of fullness in one ear.

Other possible causes

Vertigo can also occur due to:

• Head injuries
• Certain medications
• Migraines
• Problems affecting blood flow to the brain

Sometimes, the cause isn't clear, but many people recover naturally as the brain learns to adapt.

When to seek help

You should speak to a GP if:

• Vertigo keeps coming back
• It last for more than a few days
• You have hearing loss, ringing in the ears or ear pain
• You've had a recent cold or infection
• It's affecting your confidence or causing you to fall

If you experience sudden hearing loss, double vision, weakness or difficulty speaking, seek medical attention immediately - these symptoms need urgent attention.

Managing and preventing vertigo

Most causes of vertigo improve over time, especially with the right support. Your GP may suggest specific balance exercises or refer you to a specialist for treatment.

At home, you can help by:

• Moving slowly and carefully when changing position
• Avoiding sudden head movements
• Keeping your home well-lit and free from trip hazards
• Using a stable walking aid if needed

Because hearing and vision play a key role in balance, keeping both regularly checked can also reduce your risk of falls.

• NHS Inform (opens in a new tab)