In larbyrinthitis, the semicircular canals in the inner ear, which are fluid-filled chambers that sense movement and help maintain balance, become inflamed.
Causes of Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis most commonly results from an acute viral infection involving the inner ear. Bacterial infections can produce similar changes. A cholesteatoma, which is a developmental collection of tissue in the middle ear, can lead to tumors and collections of dead tissue that produce dizziness and vertigo. Trauma to the skull base, where the vestibular apparatus is located can, also, lead to vertigo, dizziness, hearing loss and tinnitus.
Signs and Symptoms of Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis symptoms are a manifestation of temporary dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus. They include dizziness and vertigo. Vertigo is the sensation the either you or your surroundings are spinning. Once you have it, you won't forget the sensation. Movement of the head tends to precipitate or aggravate these symptoms. Often, only one position can be found where the inflamed vestibular system is not stimulated. People try to stay in this position to limit their symptoms. Untreated, labyrinthitis tends to progress and peak with 24-48 hours. Due to the interconnections of the eyes with the vestibular system, involuntary eye movement may occur in conjunction with vertigo. Nausea and vomiting may occur. Balance is impaired, and the person may veer or fall. Since the process affected the vestibular apparatus may also affect the closely adjacent cochlea and cochlear nerves, hearing may be impaired and ringing in the ear, or tinnitus, may develop.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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