This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is vestibular neuritis?
Vestibular neuritis is inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which helps control balance. When the nerve becomes irritated—often due to a viral infection—it causes sudden, severe dizziness or vertigo without affecting hearing.
2. What are the common symptoms?
Symptoms usually begin suddenly and include intense spinning dizziness, nausea, vomiting, imbalance, and difficulty walking. The vertigo may last hours to days, while milder imbalance can linger for weeks. Hearing is typically normal, unlike in labyrinthitis.
3. What causes vestibular neuritis?
It is most commonly linked to viral infections such as colds, flu, or other respiratory viruses. The virus causes the vestibular nerve to swell, disrupting signals between the inner ear and brain. Sometimes the exact cause is unclear.
4. How is it different from labyrinthitis?
Vestibular neuritis affects only the balance nerve, so hearing remains normal. Labyrinthitis affects both the balance and hearing structures of the inner ear, leading to vertigo plus hearing loss or tinnitus.
5. How is vestibular neuritis diagnosed?
A GP or emergency doctor diagnoses it based on your symptoms, balance testing, and eye movement examination. They may check for other neurological causes. Hearing tests can help rule out labyrinthitis. Imaging is only needed if symptoms are unusual or severe.
6. How is it treated?
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and promoting nerve recovery. This includes medications for vertigo and nausea (short-term), anti-inflammatory medications if suitable, rest early on, and vestibular physiotherapy exercises to help the brain adapt. Most people recover gradually.
7. How long does recovery take?
Severe vertigo usually improves within a few days, but balance problems can take weeks to months to fully settle. Early movement and vestibular exercises help speed up recovery.
8. Is vestibular neuritis dangerous?
It is not life-threatening, but the dizziness can be disabling and increase fall risk. It is important to be assessed to rule out stroke or other causes of acute vertigo, especially if symptoms include weakness, slurred speech, or double vision.
9. What should I avoid during recovery?
Avoid driving, climbing ladders, or activities requiring precise balance until dizziness improves. Limit screen use during severe vertigo. Gradually increase activity as tolerated—prolonged rest can slow recovery.
10. When should I see a GP?
See a GP if dizziness is severe, persistent, or accompanied by hearing loss, headache, weakness, or visual changes. You should also seek review if symptoms do not improve within a few days or if you experience repeated episodes.
