Can common cold cause labyrinthitis?

Labyrinthitis affects the inner ear and can cause spinning dizziness, unsteadiness, nausea and sometimes hearing changes or ringing. Symptoms may appear during or after a viral respiratory illness. The inner ear sends balance information to the brain, so inflammation can make movement and head turns feel disorienting.

Similar dizziness can come from other conditions, including vestibular neuritis, migraine, medication effects or a problem affecting the brain. Hearing loss, neurological symptoms and the timing of dizziness help a clinician decide what assessment is needed.

Sit or lie down when spinning starts, move slowly, keep pathways clear and avoid driving, heights or machinery until your balance is safe. Sip fluids if nausea allows and ask a pharmacist or clinician about medicines for severe nausea or vertigo.

Arrange an assessment if dizziness is new, intense, persistent or accompanied by hearing symptoms. A clinician may examine your ears, hearing, eye movements and balance, then discuss treatment or exercises suited to the cause.

Seek emergency help for sudden hearing loss, severe headache, fainting, new weakness or numbness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, double vision, inability to walk, chest pain or severe vomiting. These features may indicate a problem other than a simple post-viral inner-ear disorder.

Ask whether your pattern fits labyrinthitis or another balance disorder, whether your hearing should be tested, and which activities are unsafe while symptoms continue. Ask when balance exercises or specialist review would be appropriate.