Hello--
I need your advice and help regarding an inner ear infection.
Almost 3 1/2 weeks ago, I had to go to the emergency room for severe vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. It happened very suddenly, probably within 6 hours of noticing the first "strange" symptoms of disequilibrium. Since I had a cold, I thought this feeling was a reaction to Nyquil.
The doctors at the hospital told me that I had the classic, textbook symptoms of an inner ear infection, especially since I was also recovering from a cold. They prescribed Valium and sent me home.
I went to my physician later that morning and he prescribed an antibiotic (I can't remember the name) and Antivert and said I would be myself within two days.
Well, it's now three weeks later and I still have a strange sensation in my head, usually when there is sudden head movement. It's hard to work on my computer sometimes (I have to strain), and I am afraid to drive because I still don't feel like "myself". On the advice of my doctor, I am still taking Antivert, but I have noticed only slight daily improvement. I'm not really dizzy and I don't have nausea. I haven't vomited since I was at the hospital.
Everything I have read on inner ear infections says to stay patient, that this feeling could last up to six weeks. However, I am still worried and wonder if there is anything else I can do to help myself. Should I still take the Antivert? Will this feeling last forever?
I should tell you that I was able to work, stand, and hold my head up after two weeks, which my doctor say was great improvement. Should I just be patient or is there anything you can suggest?
Thank you for your advice!
Reply: -----------------
The symptoms you have described are indeed consistent with an inner ear inflammation undoubtedly triggered by a generalized upper respiratory condition. Inner ear conditions associated with upper respiratory infections are generally known as "labyrinthitis", but more specifically they may be associated with inflammatory processes in the inner ear fluids (serous labyrinthitis) or they may be associated with an inflammatory process in the nerve of the inner ear (vestibular neuronitis). In either case, the symptoms are similar and typically consist of an initial 1-3 days of relatively severe whirling vertigo usually associated with nausea and vomiting, followed by 4-6 weeks of dysequilibrium with or without actual vertigo. Episodic vertigo in this latter period can often be induced by rapid head movements.
Treatment of infectious inner ear disorders usually requires sedatives such as valium or meclizine (Antivert). Antibiotics however usually offer little if any benefit. Symptomatic treatment with these medications may be required for several weeks. If symptoms persist beyond this time frame; are associated with other neurological symptoms such as signficant headache, slurring of speech, visual disturbance, etc.; or if dizziness worsens rather than gradually lessens, consultation with an ears, nose, throat specialist or a neurologist is warranted.
--
Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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