Inflammation of the semicircular canals (labyrinth) in the inner Ear, which contains the organs of balance and the receptor for hearing. The semicircular canals of the inner Ear (labyrinth) become inflamed. This disrupts their function, including the regulation of balance. Risk factors include the following:

Recent viral illness, Respiratory infection, or Ear infection Use of prescription or nonprescription drugs (especially aspirin) Stress Fatigue A history of Allergy, smoking, or heavy alcohol consumption.

Purulent labyrinthitis - when caused by bacteria Bacterial labyrinthitis Viral labyrinthitis

The cause of labyrinthitis is unknown, but because it commonly occurs following Otitis media (Ear infection) or an upper Respiratory infection (URI), it is thought to be a consequence of viral or bacterial infection. It may also follow Allergy, cholesteatoma, or the ingestion of certain drugs that are toxic to the inner Ear.

Viral infection in the inner Ear. Bacterial infection in the inner Ear. Chronic middle-Ear infection. Ingestion of toxic drugs. Allergy.

It may be a complication of:

Cholesteatoma Middle Ear infection Mumps

Vertigo Balance problems Dizziness Jerky Eye movements Nystagmus Hearing loss Partial hearing loss Total hearing loss Deafness One-sided hearing loss Nausea Vomiting Falling Loss of balance Ringing in the ears Tinnitis Ear pain Symptoms worse on movement Symptoms worse on suddenly sitting up

An Ear examination may not reveal any changes. Differentiation from other causes of dizziness or vertigo may include:

Head CT scan or MRI scan Hearing testing (audiology/audiometry) Caloric stimulation (tests reflexes of the Eye) Electronystagmography EEG, evoked auditory potential studies

Ear fluid drainage Mastoidectomy Antibiotics Antivirals Bed rest Medications for vertigo Medications for Vomiting Surgical drainage

Labyrinthitis usually runs its course over a few weeks. However, symptoms may need treatment. Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection. To prevent worsening of symptoms during episodes of labyrinthitis, try the following: Keep still and rest during attacks. Gradually resume activity. Avoid sudden position changes. Do not try to read during attacks. Avoid bright lights. Assistance while walking may be needed during attacks. Avoid hazardous activities such as driving, operating heavy machinery, and climbing until one week after symptoms have disappeared.

Prompt treatment of Respiratory infections and Ear infections may help prevent labyrinthitis.

Recovery is usually spontaneous and hearing usually returns to normal. Surgical intervention is needed for good prognosis.

Brain infection Meningitis - mainly for bacterial type of labyrinthitis Hearing impairment Recurrences of Ear infections injury to self or others during attacks of Vertigo Permanent hearing loss in the affected Ear (rare)