Vestibular Neuronitis

What Causes Vestibular Neuritis ?

Vestibular Neuritis causes dizziness due to a viral infection/ inflammation of the vestibular nerve (the eight cranial nerve). Imbalance and sickness are present in this disorder too; fortunately hearing loss and tinnitus are not usually present. It is thought that there may be a viral link to the herpes virus although this is still under review, as is the reduced blood flow theory, which is thought to cause the fluid build up.

 Treatment:

Most people will recover from this condition within a period of 2-5 days of the acute attack, with a steady improvement over a period of 6 to 12 weeks. However, some people who have vestibular neuronitis may be left with a persistent imbalance once the initial vertigo has gone. The symptom of imbalance can be distressing but can be helped by vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT). Click here for further information on VRT

The treatment is very similar to that of Labyrinthitis in as much as anti- sickness and sometimes steroids are indicated.

To reduce the symptoms of vestibular neuritis, try the following:

• Keep still and rest during attacks.
• Avoid sudden changes in your position move slowly
• Do not try to read during attacks.
• Avoid bright lights, florescent strip lights.
• Reduce your salt intake.
• Avoid fizzy drinks that contain sodium.
• Do not drive or operate machinery until the dizziness disappears.

Please Note: The information provided here should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A medical practitioner should always be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions.

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