Labyrinthitis is inflammation of the part of the inner ear called the labyrinth.
The labyrinth is made up of fluid-filled channels which control balance and hearing. When you move your head, the fluid in the channels move and this tells the brain which direction you are moving in and how far and fast you are going. This information helps the body to balance.
Your hearing is controlled by the part of the labyrinth known as the cochlea. When the organs of balance in an ear are inflamed the information sent to the brain will be different from the other, unaffected ear. This varied information can make you feel dizzy. Hearing may also be affected if this part of the inner ear is also inflamed.
If people have no hearing loss and only experience the balance symptoms, this is known as vestibular neuronitis.
Who is affected by labyrinthitis?
Labyrinthitis can affect both men and women equally, at any age, although it is rare in children.
How is labyrinthitis diagnosed?
A number of tests may be involved, including a hearing test, an eye test to check for eye movement (nystagmus), or your doctor may turn your head/body to see if this produces any dizziness. In some cases, you may also be required to have an MRI or CT scan. Usually only one ear is affected by labyrinthitis. It is most commonly caused by a viral infection (viral labyrinthitis) but, in some cases, the cause may be bacterial (bacterial labyrinthitis)
Are there any long term effects of labyrinthitis?
For the majority of people who suffer from labyrinthitis, their balance and hearing returns to normal afterwards. In some cases, people find that they have mild dizziness when they move their head. This can happen for up to several years after they have had the infection. It is relatively uncommon for there to be complications from labyrinthitis, but they can include permanent hearing loss, permanent tinnitus, or permanent imbalance. This is more likely with bacterial labyrinthitis than viral labyrinthitis.
Get further information about labyrinthitis
Email us (info@menieres.org.uk) for a FREE labyrinthitis information pack, or call us on 01306 876883 to chat with a member of our team.
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Please note, the Ménière's Society can provide general information, but is unable to provide specific medical advice. You should always check with your medical professional for information and advice relating to your symptoms/condition.
You can also read more about labyrinthitis on the NHS Choices website and watch the video 'Labyrinthitis and Vertigo' produced by NHS Choices.
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