Peripheral Vestibular Disorders

Your peripheral vestibular system is comprised of structures within your inner ear which work with your brain to govern balance. There are several conditions which fall under the umbrella of peripheral vestibular disorders, each with unique characteristics.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is, according to NeurologyChannel.com, the most common vestibular disorder. It is characterized by diminished cognition (awareness), hearing loss and weakness of facial muscles.

Vestibular Neuritis

• Vestibular neuritis, according to the Ochsner Journal, is the second most common cause of vestibular-related vertigo. It is caused by infection of the vestibular nerve and may cause bouts of sudden vertigo which can persist for several days.

Ménière Disease

• Ménière disease (often called Ménière syndrome) is caused by fluctuations in the pressure of your inner ear fluid. Symptoms include ringing of the ears (tinnitus), severe vertigo and a progressive loss of hearing.

Labyrinthitis

• Labyrinthitis is caused by inflammation of the labyrinth in your inner ear. It often occurs after an infection of the upper respiratory tract and can cause symptoms of sudden vertigo combined with hearing loss.

Vestibular Schwannoma

• Vestibular schwannomas are benign tumors which grow slowly from the cells which line the vestibular portion of your cranial nerve. Symptoms include periodic tinnitus, one-sided hearing loss, loss of balance and vertigo.