Labyrinthitis Symptoms

Labyrinthitis is a condition in which the inner ear is irritated and swollen. This inflammation disrupts the functions of the inner ear, most notably your ability to maintain your balance. Severe symptoms of labyrinthitis usually last no more than a week, according to Medline Plus. Symptoms may linger at decreased severity for several more weeks, but they are usually gone for good within three months, although ongoing dizziness after laybrinthitis is more likely in older patients.

Causes

• Labyrinthitis often shows up in the wake of an ear infection, an upper respiratory infection or a cholesteatoma, a benign skin growth in the middle or inner ear. It can also occur after taking drugs that are harmful to the inner ear.

Primary Symptoms

• Among the most obvious symptoms of labyrinthitis are the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning (vertigo), dizziness and loss of balance. Nausea and vomiting may occur as well.

Other Symptoms

• Labyrinthitis may also be indicated by ringing or other abnormal sounds in the ears, or by a loss of hearing in the affected ear. In addition, it may be hard to focus your eyes because of involuntary eye movements, another symptom of labyrinthitis, according to Medline Plus.

Risk Factors

• Various factors, some within your control and some not, increase your risk of labyrinthitis. Smoking and drinking too much alcohol put you at higher risk, as do stress and fatigue. Certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs, particularly aspirin, may raise your risk. A history of allergies is another risk factor.

Managing Symptoms

• When the symptoms of labyrinthitis occur, try to stay still and rest, avoiding sudden movements and bright lights. Do not try to read. When you resume activity, do so gradually. You should continue to avoid driving, climbing, operating heavy machinery and other potentially hazardous activities until a week after the symptoms are gone.