Labyrinthitis and Vertigo (BPPV): Hazel's story | NHS

Labyrinthitis is an inner ear infection that affects your balance and hearing. It usually results from a viral infection and can cause dizziness, hearing loss, and vertigo.

Common symptoms of labyrinthitis include dizziness, vertigo, hearing loss, and a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear. Some may also experience nausea and vomiting.

Labyrinthitis is diagnosed based on your symptoms, a physical examination, and sometimes hearing tests or imaging studies like an MRI may be ordered to rule out other conditions.

Vertigo is a sensation that you or the environment around you is moving or spinning. It's often a symptom of an inner ear problem like labyrinthitis or Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).

BPPV is a disorder arising in the inner ear, causing short episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position. It's one of the most common causes of vertigo.

The acute symptoms of labyrinthitis typically last for a few days to a few weeks, but some symptoms like dizziness and unsteadiness can persist for months in some cases.

Yes, treatment for labyrinthitis often includes medications to relieve symptoms such as dizziness and nausea. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is suspected.

Yes, BPPV can often be effectively treated with a series of head movements known as the Epley maneuver or other repositioning techniques performed by a healthcare professional.

In most cases, any hearing loss associated with labyrinthitis is temporary. However, in rare instances, it may result in permanent hearing damage.

Rest, avoiding sudden movements, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol or caffeine can help manage symptoms. Vestibular rehabilitation exercises may also be recommended.

BPPV is often triggered by changes in head position, such as rolling over in bed, looking up or down, or getting up quickly. It can be exacerbated by head injury or prolonged bed rest.

While it's difficult to prevent labyrinthitis entirely, maintaining good general health, managing infections promptly, and avoiding smoking can reduce risk factors.

If you experience severe vertigo, you should lie down in a quiet, dark room until the symptoms pass. Seek medical advice if the symptoms are prolonged or accompanied by severe headache, fever, or vision changes.

Yes, vestibular rehabilitation therapy, performed by a physiotherapist, can help improve balance and reduce symptoms of dizziness from labyrinthitis or BPPV.

Yes, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you are experiencing symptoms of vertigo or dizziness, as these can impair your ability to drive safely.