Labyrinthitis

What Causes Labyrinthitis?

Labyrinthitis typically occurs one to two weeks after a viral, bacterial, middle ear, or an upper respiratory infection, such as the flu or common head cold. If an infection occurs in the inner ear, it can lead to fever, dizziness, and temporary and permanent hearing loss.

During your consultation, we will perform a detailed examination of your ears using high-quality technology, then treat your side effects with medication or vestibular rehabilitation therapy.

Although similar to vestibular neuronitis, labyrinthitis is different in that it affects the inner ear and vestibular nerve, causing tinnitus, loss of balance, and temporary and permanent hearing loss. In most cases, if caught early, symptoms can be reversed. However, if you smoke, drink heavily, or are under a lot of stress, you are at a higher risk for escalated symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Labyrinthitis 

Dizziness, hearing loss, and other signs and symptoms associated with labyrinthitis can often be associated with other health concerns. The moment you experience one or more symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists right away. These include:

• Mild, moderate, temporary, and permanent hearing loss
• Nausea
• Ringing or buzzing in ears (tinnitus)
• Loss of balance
• Dizziness
• Fever
• Blurry vision
• Neck pain
• Facial weakness

How Labyrinthitis Can Affect Children 

The eustachian (inner ear) tubes in children are smaller, which causes colds and allergies to escalate into ear infections quickly and more frequently. When this happens, the inner ear (labyrinth) will become inflamed, and cause long-term health issues, such as hearing loss, blurred vision, and speech and developmental delays.

If your child develops an inner ear infection during an upper respiratory infection, be aware of the early signs of labyrinthitis. The moment your child exhibits any symptoms, schedule an appointment with one or our specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. Depending on the severity and how frequently your child develops ear infections, the doctor may recommend surgically inserting PE tubes in their ears to help them drain and prevent infection from developing.

Treatment Options for Labyrinthitis 

Acute side effects of labyrinthitis can be treated with medications, such as antihistamines, antibiotics, steroids, and Valium to help promote healing and manage the inner ear infection and inflammation.

When side effects such as hearing loss become chronic, Dr. Weiss and our team of specialists, will perform a detailed comprehensive exam. During the examination, additional testing, including an audiogram, ENG (electronystagmography), and other necessary scans will be performed to determine the extent of your hearing loss.

After your evaluation, they will meet with you to discuss the labyrinthitis treatment and auditory aid options available to meet your needs.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the symptoms of labyrinthitis, call our Baltimore, MD office today to schedule your consultation to help protect your hearing and long-term health.

“I received excellent care at Chesapeake ENT. Their prompt response and cheerful attitudes made for a wonderful experience. All of the audiologists were very helpful. Especially Dr. Laura Toll, her knowledge of hearing aids and the new technology offered made for an easy decision."

★★★★★ 

- Tanya 

"Was very knowledgeable and helpful."

★★★★★

- Saafir 

"Very courteous and on time."

★★★★☆

- Pauline