Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is swelling and inflammation of the labyrinth, part of the inner ear that helps to control balance. It is a form of unilateral vestibular dysfunction. Labyrinth houses vestibular system which senses changes in head position.

Causes Viral infections Bacterial infection Head injury Extreme stress Allergy Reaction to medication Risk factors – alcohol, history of allergy, smoking, respiratory infection, stress.

Signs and symptoms Vertigo – is a subtype of dizziness in which patient inappropriately experiences the perception of motions (spinning motion) due to dysfunction of the vestibular system Nystagmus –irregular involuntary movement of the eyeball Nausea and Vomiting, tinnitus General ill feeling and anxiety Hearing loss in one ear Loss of balance and Dizziness

History P.E EEG ELECTRO NYSTAGMOGRAPHY – eye movements to know the functioning of acostic and occulomotor nerve. 90 mins. CT – HEAD AUDIOMETRY MRI

TREATMENT It usually subsides within few weeks Treatment helps to reduce vertigo and other symptoms Medicines Antihistamines – for allergy Control nausea and vomiting – prochlorperazine (dopamine receptor antagonist) Relieve dizziness – meclizine (antiemetic and antihistamine) Sedatives – diazepam (valium) Steroids - prednisone

Manage vertigo Stay still and take proper rest Avoid sudden movements or position change Slowly resume activity Avoid bright lights Avoid driving, climbing Avoid alcohol intake and smoking

Habituation exercises – brandt daroff exercises Upright position – lie down to one side while the head should hold in a 45 degree angle – sit back after 30 sec – do the next side . Functional retraining – postural control and balance training.