LIFESTYLE NEWS - Labyrinthitis is an inner ear disorder. The two vestibular nerves in your inner ear send your brain information about your spatial navigation and balance control. When one of these nerves becomes inflamed, it creates a condition known as labyrinthitis.
Symptoms of labyrinthitis begin quickly and can be quite intense for several days.
They usually begin to fade after that, but they can continue to surface when you move your head suddenly.
This condition does not usually cause pain.
- dizziness
- vertigo
- loss of balance
- nausea and vomiting
- tinnitus, which is characterized by a ringing or buzzing in your ear
- loss of hearing in the high-frequency range in one ear
- difficulty focusing your eyes
Labyrinthitis can occur at any age. A variety of factors can cause labyrinthitis, including:
- respiratory illnesses, such as bronchitis
- viral infections of the inner ear
- stomach viruses
- herpes viruses
- bacterial infections, including bacterial middle ear infections
Certain symptoms can be signs of a more serious condition.
Consider these symptoms to be an emergency and seek medical attention immediately:
- fainting
- convulsions
- slurred speech
- fever
- weakness
- paralysis
- double vision
Doctors can generally diagnose labyrinthitis during a physical exam. Symptoms of labyrinthitis can mimic those of other conditions, so your doctor may order tests to rule them out.
These conditions include among others migraine, strokes, and narrowed carotid arteries.
Avoid quick changes in position or sudden movements.
Sit still during a vertigo attack.
Get up slowly from a lying-down or seated position.
Avoid television, computer screens, and bright or flashing lights during a vertigo attack.
If vertigo occurs while you're in bed, try sitting up in a chair and keeping your head still. Low lighting is better for your symptoms than darkness or bright lights.
Source: Healthline
This article is for informative purposes only. Please see your doctor if you experience any symptoms. Questions can be forwarded to questions@walkindoctor.co.za.
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