Vestibular Neuritis

Background

Vestibular Neuritis is an inner ear disorder that causes sudden, intense vertigo, imbalance, and nausea without hearing loss. Severe symptoms typically last >24 hours to days and gradually improve over weeks to months. 

Causes

Vestibular Neuritis is usually triggered by a viral infection, such as a cold or flu. In some cases, it may result from a micro-stroke or autoimmune reaction.

Treatment

The acute phase is managed with anti-nausea and vestibular suppressants. Once the initial dizziness subsides, vestibular rehabilitation therapy is essential to help the brain compensate for the nerve dysfunction. Movement is medicine!