Vestibular neuritis (also referred to as vestibular neuronitis) is a viral infection of the inner ear. It arises from the herpes labialis virus or the ‘cold sore virus’.
This virus can track along the nerve supplying the inner ear called the vestibulocochlear nerve. It can also arise from a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract or a viral gastric infection.
This causes weakness to the inner ear on the affected side causing symptoms of vertigo, dizziness, unsteadiness while walking (disequilibrium), nausea and vomiting. If accompanied by hearing loss, then the diagnosis is labyrinthitis.
How long does it last?
Severe symptoms typically last for three days, during which time it is very difficult to maintain your balance walking and you may feel severe spinning (vertigo) along with vomiting and nausea. After this period, symptoms tend to improve and walking slowly gets steadier.
Residual dizziness and imbalance can continue unnecessarily for a few months after the acute episode. There are certain vestibular rehabilitation exercises which really help to speed up the recovery process.
Treatment:
In the acute phase it can be beneficial to speak to your GP about accessing vestibular suppressants which help with the acute symptoms of vertigo and dizziness. These medications do not help after the first few days however and can actually delay the recovery process if you stay on them past the first few days.
Anti nausea medication can help in the acute stage. Early assessment by a vestibular physiotherapist is recommended in order to commence vestibular rehabilitation therapy which is aimed at stimulating the vestibular system and speeding up the recovery process.
In the acute phase it can be beneficial to speak to your GP about accessing vestibular suppressants which help with the acute symptoms of vertigo and dizziness. These medications do not help after the first few days however and can actually delay the recovery process if you stay on them past the first few days.
Anti nausea medication can help in the acute stage. Early assessment by a vestibular physiotherapist is recommended in order to commence vestibular rehabilitation therapy which is aimed at stimulating the vestibular system and speeding up the recovery process.
Outcomes:
The prognosis for recovery is very positive in vestibular neuritis when under the guidance of a vestibular physiotherapist. We expect patients to make a full and complete recovery without any residual symptoms.
Remember
If you are interested in booking an appointment with one of our Chartered Vestibular Physiotherapists that specialises in Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy or just need some guidance, then please give us a call or send us an email using the buttons below.
We hope you enjoyed this blog by Carol O’Brien, Chartered Vestibular Physiotherapist.
This blog is provided for information purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Seek the advice of your doctor with any queries regarding a medical condition.
