Labyrinthitis or Meniere's disease: understanding the difference

Labyrinthitis is inflammation affecting the inner ear and balance pathways, often beginning suddenly and sometimes following an infection. It may cause continuous vertigo, nausea, imbalance, and ringing in the ears; hearing can also be affected. Meniere's Disease is a longer-term inner-ear disorder in which episodes of vertigo occur alongside fluctuating hearing loss, ear pressure, or ringing.

These patterns overlap, so symptoms alone cannot confirm the diagnosis. A clinician may ask about the timing of attacks, whether one ear is affected, recent illness, headaches, medicines, and changes in hearing. A Hearing Test can document hearing patterns and help guide the next step.

Keep a record of when each episode starts, how long it lasts, which ear feels different, and whether sound or movement triggers it. During an attack, sit or lie down, avoid sudden head movements, and protect yourself from falls. Arrange a GP Consultation if vertigo keeps returning, hearing changes, or ringing persists. Do not start a restrictive diet or stop prescribed medicine without advice.

Get urgent help for new facial drooping, one-sided weakness, difficulty speaking, fainting, a severe new headache, or inability to walk safely. Sudden hearing loss, severe vomiting with dehydration, or a rapidly worsening episode also warrants prompt medical review. A new neurological symptom should not be attributed to Meniere's disease without assessment.

Ask whether your episode pattern fits an inner-ear disorder, whether a Hearing Test is appropriate, which medicines may affect balance, and what warning signs should change your plan.