Labyrinthitis is inflammation of the labyrinth of the inner ear, which contains the organs of hearing and balance. It is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection, such as the common cold, and is a possible complication of otitis media (inflammation of the middle ear).
Symptoms include vertigo, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, impaired hearing, and tinnitus (ringing in the ear).
Viral labyrinthitis usually clears up on its own within a few weeks, but symptoms may be relieved with medication. Bacterial labyrinthitis usually needs treatment with antibiotics.