Overview
Labyrinthitis is a pathogen that causes inflammation of the inner ear. Bacteria and viral infections from the head or respiratory tract can spread causing a disorder that involves swelling, fluid build-up(perilymph) and irritation of the inner ear. Labyrinthitis can also arise from exstreme stress, head injury, an allergy or as a reaction to medication.
Symptoms
Abnormal sensation of movement(vertigo)
Difficulty focusing the eyes because of involuntary eye movement
Dizziness
Hearing loss in one earLoss of balance, such as falling toward one side.
Nausea and vomiting
Tinnitus or other noises in the ear
Description
In structure, the labyrinth is a group of interconnected canals and chambers that houses the vestibular system of the inner ear. The vestibular system is made up of three semicircular canals that sense changes in rotational motion, gravity and linear motion. The brain combines visual cues with sensory signals from the semicircular canals to determine adjustments needed to retain balance. Labyrinthitis is caused by the inflammation of the labyrinth. When inflammation occurs the signal from the semicircular canals to the brain becomes affected resulting in it's most prominent and debilitating symptom acute vertigo.
Treatment
Labyrinthitis usually subsides within a few weeks. If infection continues your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic if bacteria is found to be the cause. In result of a viral infection, surgery may be required to drain fluid (perilymph) in the inner and middle ear. Treatment is focused on controlling the infection since most labyrinthitis usually resolves on it's own.
Diagnosis
A CT scan or MRI scan may be ordered if there is no history of recent infection. These scans help rule out other causes for vertigo, such as tumors. Blood test or fluid drainage from the ear can be tested to determine if bacteria is the cause of infection.
References
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