General Information
Definition
Labyrinthitis is an inflammation which occurs in the inner ear. Its cause is via the spread of either bacterial or viral infections from the head or respiratory tract into the inner ear.
Symptoms
The general symptoms of Labyrinthitis are characterised by either dizziness or a feeling of motion sickness. The cause of this disturbance can often effect your sense of balance.
Causes
The disease agents that cause Labyrinthitis tend to reach the inner ear by one of three routes:
- Bacteria could be carried from the middle ear or from the membranes that surround the brain.
- The viruses that cause Mumps, Measles, Influenza, and the Common Cold may reach the inner ear following an upper respiratory infection.
- Prior to birth, the Rubella virus can cause Labyrinthitis in infants.
Labyrinthitis can also be caused by toxic drugs.
The Inner Ear
Within the inner ear, there is an interconnected group of canal chambers referred to as the Labyrinth. It consists of Semicircular Canals plus the Cochlea. Information is relayed to the brain by the Semicircular Canals regarding the head's movement and position. This information is used by the brain for balance control. The Cochlea is involved in transmitting sounds to the brain. Labyrinthitis is caused by the inflammation of the Labyrinth.