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Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis are types of inner ear infection that affect your balance. They usually get better on their own within a few weeks.
The most common symptoms of labyrinthitis are:
The symptoms of vestibular neuritis are very similar, but it does not cause hearing loss or tinnitus.
Symptoms can start suddenly. They may be there when you wake up and get worse as the day goes on.
The symptoms often ease after a few days.
You'll usually get your balance back over 2 to 6 weeks, although it can take longer.
Labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis usually gets better on its own. But there are things you can do to ease the symptoms.
lie still in a dark room if you feel very dizzy
drink plenty of water if you're being sick – it's best to drink little and often
try to avoid noise and bright lights
try to get enough sleep – tiredness can make symptoms worse
start to go for walks outside as soon as possible – it may help to have someone with you to steady you until you become confident
when you're out and about, keep your eyes focused on a fixed object, rather than looking around all the time
do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery if you feel dizzy
do not drink alcohol – it can make symptoms worse
The GP may refer you to a hospital specialist.
You may need to be referred to a specialist for tests, and possibly treatment.
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis are problems with different parts of the inner ear, which are needed for balance:
The symptoms of vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis are very similar.
However, if your hearing is affected, then labyrinthitis is the cause. This is because inflammation of the labyrinth affects hearing, while inflammation of the vestibular nerve does not.
If you have labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, a GP may prescribe antihistamines or motion sickness tablets for up to 3 days. Do not take them for any longer, as they can slow down your recovery.
Labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis is usually caused by a viral infection, such as a cold or flu, so antibiotics will not help. But a GP may prescribe antibiotics if they think your infection is bacterial.
Sometimes, balance problems can last for much longer – for many months or even years.
Vestibular rehabilitation is a series of exercises that can help restore balance. You should only do the exercises under the supervision of a specialist such as a physiotherapist or audiologist.
You can ask a GP to refer you to a physiotherapist, or it may be possible to refer yourself directly.
Waiting lists for accessing NHS physiotherapy can be long and you may prefer to pay for private treatment. Most private physiotherapists accept direct self-referrals.
