Labyrinthitis Treatments

Medications

• Antibiotics (only for bacterial infection)
• Medication to control the symptoms, including:
  • Antiemetics—to control nausea and vomiting
  • Vestibular suppressants—such as meclizine, to help control loss of balance and dizziness
  • Steroids—in limited situations, to help control inflammation
  • Anti-viral medication (eg, Acyclovir)– this may be prescribed by your physician

Note: Without antibiotic treatment, bacterial labyrinthitis can lead to permanent hearing loss or permanent problems with balance.

Self-care Measures

• Rest, lie still with your eyes closed in a darkened room during acute attacks.
• Avoid movement, especially sudden movement, as much as possible.
• Avoid reading.
• Resume normal activities gradually after the symptoms have cleared.

Emergency Treatment

In some cases, nausea and vomiting cannot be controlled. This can result in severe dehydration , which may require hospitalization to receive intravenous fluids.

Surgery

Rarely, labyrinthitis may be due to a break in the membranes between the middle and inner ear. Surgery to repair the break may be required. If a tumor is causing the condition, surgery may also be needed.