Inner Ear Infection Symptoms

Inner ear infection symptoms include loss of balance, loss of hearing, headache, dizziness and feelings similar to motion sickness. Inner ear infection symptoms are a set of symptoms also known as labyrinthitis. It is called labyrinthitis because the infection is found in the inner ear that contains an arrangement of tubes and canals called the labyrinth. Symptoms manifest when these become inflamed and infected. With inner ear infection symptoms, any movement involving looking upwards, moving the head or sitting up makes the symptoms worse. Initially these symptoms only last from a few days to a few weeks. In some cases, inner ear infection may also indicate other serious conditions such as meningitis, stroke or brain tumors and because of this a doctor should be consulted if the symptoms get worse or is persistent. Although most inner ear infection is viral, there are also cases that are caused by bacteria.

The symptoms of both bacterial and viral infections are similar but the treatments are vastly different. Proper diagnosis and treatment by a doctor is essential because of this. Labyrinthitis occurs when infection affects the vestibulo-cochlear nerve and this causes changes in hearing in addition to vertigo. Measles can also cause an inner ear infection and typically only one ear is affected. Inner ear infection symptoms can sometimes be so severe that someone suffering from it finds it difficult to stand, walk or even sit. There might also be mild dizziness or extreme spinning sensation that makes the individual nauseous along with loss of hearing. Most often the symptoms come on very suddenly and abruptly. The inner ear infection symptoms may then completely subside after a few weeks. Some might experience chronic dizziness especially if the vestibular nerve is damaged. Treatment for inner ear infection symptoms is through the ruling out of other illnesses and the symptoms are then treated. Although most inner ear infection cases cause no permanent damage, some may have damage to the vestibular system or loss of hearing. Because of this, inner ear infection symptoms must be checked with the doctor if any of the symptoms persist or do not subside. Back to Ear Infection Symptoms