What is it?

Labyrinthitis is inflammation of the inner ear, or labyrinth, which comprises fluid-filled tubes that sense sound and movement. The inflammation causes disruption to signals involved with balance and posture sent from the ear to the brain and so causes dizziness, which can be sudden, severe and disabling.

What are the causes?

Many cases are triggered by viral infections such as colds and flu. Bacterial ear infections can also be a cause, as can heavy drinking and allergic reactions. Symptoms are similar to severe seasickness, with giddiness, nausea and vomiting, ringing in the ears and tiredness being common.

What is the treatment?

Most cases settle down in two to three weeks. GPs will prescribe treatment to control symptoms, usually in the form of a sedative such as prochlorperazine or cyclizine. Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics.

What if the symptoms persist?

In rare cases bacterial labyrinthitis can lead to long-term problems with balance and hearing, and blood tests and MRI scanning of the ear may be necessary. Therapy that retrains the body to balance can help those with persisting labyrinthitis. For more details visit tinyurl.com/55fycl

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