In vestibular neuronitis, a paroxysmal, usually single attack of vertigo occurs without accompanying impairment of auditory function and will persist for several days to a week before gradually abating During the acute phase, examination reveals nystagmus and absent responses to caloric stimulation on one or both sides The cause of the disorder is unclear though presumed to be viral

Treatment

consists of supportive care, including oral diazepam, 2–5 mg every 6–12 hours, or meclizine, 25–100 mg divided 2–3 times daily, during the acute phases of the vertigo only, followed by vestibular therapy if the patient does not completely compensate