6/10 at approx. 6:00 PM dizzyness started accompanied by some blurred vision. Gradually worsened until had to go to ER early following morning. Diagnosed with Acute Labrynthitis and given px of Antivert and sent home. Vomited AM of 6/11 returning from ER. Spent AM in bed - extremely dizzy unable to move head side-to-side without room spinning and unable to stand to walk. Consulted family doc AM of 6/11 and he prescribed compazine. Took through 6/11 and 6/12 AM with little change in symptoms. Arranged to see ENT specialist 6/12. He examined my ears and gave me hearing test(no loss of hearing and no ringing in ears). He diagnosed me with Acute Labyrinthitis and prescribed Valium 5mg 4x daily with an additional px of Valium 2mg for "additional episodes I may have later". Took two when got home then two more before bed. Slept through PM - woke 6/12 still feeling dizzy and had much difficulty getting vertical to walk. Have now missed work 6/11,12,13. Still currently feel dizzy. Can't walk well and definitely can't drive. Healthy person with some history of sinus problems but well over 1.5 years ago. Allergies don't seem to be bothering me either. Haven't hit my head. Haven't been socially drinking recently. Help! How long will this last? Have read some horror stories in here that this could go on for months/years. Has now affected me for four days. Can't bear the thought of dealing with this for much longer. Is this something I now have to deal with for life? What's the cause and what's the cure?
Reply: ------------------------------
Acute labyrinthitis is usually a self-limited condition that will resolve on its own with time. In most cases, the severest symptoms last for the initial several days and may in some cases require intravenous medication if vomiting is severe such that oral medication is ineffective or if dehydration occurs. After that initial period one can expect 4-6 weeks of less severe symptoms which gradually dissipate. During this latter period, vertigo can be easily precipitated by sudden head movements and motion illness is common. The main treatment available is medication to sedate the inner ear - meclizine, valium, etc. Increased fluid intake is necessary to avoid dehydration. One should avoid caffeine until symptoms are completely resolved.
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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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