Patients with labyrinthitis suffer from acute onset of continuous, usually severe vertigo lasting several days to a week, accompanied by hearing loss and tinnitus During a recovery period that lasts for several weeks, the vertigo gradually improves Hearing may return to normal or remain permanently impaired in the involved ear The cause of labyrinthitis is unknown

Treatment

consists of antibiotics if the patient is febrile or has symptoms of a bacterial infection, and supportive care Vestibular suppressants are useful during the acute phase of the attack (eg, diazepam or meclizine) but should be discontinued as soon as feasible to avoid long-term dysequilibrium from inadequate compensation