How is labyrinthitis treated?

The inner ear sends signals used for hearing and orientation. When inflammation disrupts those signals, the mismatch can produce vertigo, nausea and unsteadiness; hearing loss or ringing may occur when the hearing part of the inner ear is involved. A clinician first checks whether the pattern fits labyrinthitis and considers other causes of acute vertigo. A common cold or another recent infection may be part of the history, but it does not confirm the diagnosis. Treatment therefore depends on the examination and on which symptoms are present.

During severe symptoms, sit or lie somewhere safe, move your head slowly, take fluids in small regular amounts and avoid driving. A clinician may recommend medicine for nausea or vertigo for a short period; use only treatments suitable for you and follow the instructions. Once the worst spinning eases, gentle movement and prescribed vestibular exercises can help the brain adapt. Prolonged use of some vestibular-suppressing medicines may interfere with that adaptation, so ask how long to take them. A GP Consultation can help coordinate assessment.

Get urgent medical help for sudden hearing loss, weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, severe new headache, fainting, double vision or inability to walk. Seek prompt advice if vomiting stops you keeping fluids down, symptoms worsen rather than ease, or ear pain and discharge develop. These features may require a different assessment or treatment.

Ask which diagnosis is being treated, how long symptom medicine should be used, when to begin balance exercises, whether hearing assessment is needed, and what activity restrictions apply to work, driving and exercise. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, allergies and other medicines before starting treatment.