Vestibular Neuritis

Vestibular Neuritis is the second most common cause of dizziness and vertigo, due to a problem in the inner ear.  Vestibular Neuritis is caused by a viral infection that affects the Vestibular Nerve, which travels between the inner ear and the brain.  It can start with a viral infection of the upper respiratory system or the gastrointestinal system.  Herpes Simplex Virus is the most common viral infection.  Many times you may be unaware that you even had an infection.

Vestibular Neuritis can also be caused by problems with decreased blood flow in the inner ear, exposure to toxic agents, or allergic substances (which may then have a seasonal impact).

Common symptoms that you may experience with Vestibular Neuritis include a sudden onset of vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and imbalance, which may last one to three days.  The severity of the symptoms will then decrease, but, because of the damage caused in the inner ear, you may still be left with residual feelings of imbalance, dizziness, or vertigo, especially with head movements, or quick body movements.  Vestibular Neuritis does not affect your hearing in any way.

Fortunately, Vestibular Rehabilitation can help to eliminate your dizziness and imbalance, and help you to return to your previously active lifestyle.