Did an ear infection cause a vestibular disorder? 2 ways this could be true
Did an Ear Infection Cause a Vestibular Disorder? 2 Ways this Could be True
Notice cold, flu, or ear infection symptoms prior to vestibular disorder onset? Maybe there were no signs of illness or infection but wondering what might have happened? When it comes to vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis, a recent illness may have contributed to ones vestibular disorder. Continue reading to learn more.
The Vestibular System: Your Body's Balance Center
Before we dive into labyrinthitis and neuritis, let’s first understand the vestibular system. This intricate network of structures within the inner ear is responsible for maintaining balance, spatial orientation, and coordinating eye movements. It consists of the semicircular canals, the utricle, and the saccule, which contain fluid and sensory cells that detect motion and gravity. The other portion of the vestibular system is the cochlea which is in charge of hearing. Here’s a video that goes into vestibular anatomy and its functions in more detail here.
Labyrinthitis vs Neuritis
Vestibular labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis can feel like two very similar vestibular disorders. Both vestibular disorders involve inflammation and swelling, symptoms tend to come on suddenly and intensely and can last hours to days. Treatments can sound quite similar as well including certain medications and vestibular therapy to assist with residual dizziness and imbalance. Both can be a result of a recent viral infection, or possibly a dormant viral infection. There are some differences that will be explained in written and picture formats below.
One difference between labyrinthitis and neuritis vestibular disorders involve the area being impacted. Vestibular neuritis is specifically the vestibular branch of cranial nerve 8, the vestibulo-cochlear nerve. The cranial nerve branches into two sections, one going to the vestibular portion with the utricle, saccule and 3 semicircular canals. The other branch goes to the cochlear portion of the vestibular organ.
Other differences can include hearing loss or tinnitus which is more in line with labyrinthitis. Both vestibular disorders can arise from a viral infection, however labyrinthitis may also be connected to bacterial infections, reactions to medications, allergies etc.
Treatment
Initial testing and treatment for these vestibular conditions may look similar. Anti viral medications or steroids may be prescribed to assist with the initial inflammation and swelling to the impacted areas. As mentioned before with labyrinthitis, other medications may be prescribed based on the suspected infection cause of the labyrinthitis. Additional testing and imaging may be ordered to gather more information and rule out potential causes. Both vestibular disorders may warrant a referral to vestibular rehab therapy to address lingering symptoms of dizziness, imbalance, brain fog, motion sensitivity and other common vestibular symptoms.
Once the initial event has passed and inflammation or swelling has gone away, many experience improvement in symptoms. The severity or intensity of symptoms improves, but there may be lingering symptoms and difficulty with certain head, eye or body movements. Gradually working on challenging movements, busy patterns, or daily activities is a major part of vestibular therapy. By gradually working on these challenges, the brain is able to learn the correct response to the movement signals being sent to the brain. More on this here.
Common questions about Vestibular Neuritis and Vestibular Labyrinthitis
Is it contagious? Technically no, however if there was a recent infection prior to onset of symptoms, those germs may put others at risk of getting sick, but this does not guarantee they will also get sick and experience a vestibular disorder.
Can I go back to daily life? Yes, many have good recovery. It is normal to need additional assist and progression back to daily activities which is why vestibular rehab therapy is a common part of treatment.
Will it happen again? Technically it can. The recurrence of neuritis is quite rate. After vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, the potential for other conditions such as BPPV or vestibular migraine can occur. One does not cause the other, but if someone is predisposed and more likely to develop one of these conditions, vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis can be precursor events.
Conclusion
With the right guidance and treatment, relief is possible for vestibular disorders. By understanding the vestibular system, recognizing the symptoms of these disorders, and seeking appropriate medical care, you can take steps towards regaining your balance and reclaiming your life. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey, and there are resources and support available to help you every step of the way. Reach out for further questions or guidance.
Disclaimer
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Disclaimer:
Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.
