Vestibular neuritis

Overview

Neuritis is an infection of the vestibular nerve in your inner ear which disrupts your sense of balance. It is characterised by sudden and severe attacks of dizziness and vomiting (“like riding a carousel”). The complaint disappears on its own after a few days or weeks; professional physiotherapy supports the healing process.

Symptoms

Main symptoms

• Sudden, severe attacks of dizziness (vertigo, “like riding a carousel”)
• Nausea and vomiting

These symptoms can persist for several days!

Causes and treatment

Causes

• The exact cause is not known
• It often starts shortly after a flu-like infection (cold)

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

• Special examinations done by an ear, throat and nose (ENT) specialist (e.g. swivel chair dizziness test, caloric test, etc.)

Possible therapies

• Medication against the attacks of dizziness
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Physiotherapy (balance exercises)
  

What can I do myself?

• Try taking up your everyday activities again as soon as possible

When to see a doctor?

• Sudden onset of dizziness
  • In particular if accompanied by severe nausea and vomiting
• Double vision or loss of sight
• Weakness in the arms or legs
• Difficulty speaking
• Loss of consciousness
• Difficulty walking
• Numbness

Synonyms

vestibular neuronitis