Acute vestibular neuritis is a medical condition characterized by the sudden onset of inflammation within the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for relaying sensory information about balance and spatial orientation from the inner ear to the brain. This condition typically occurs due to a viral infection, such as the herpes virus or influenza, which leads to the inflammation of the nerve.
People with acute vestibular neuritis often experience a range of symptoms, including severe vertigo (a spinning sensation), dizziness, imbalance, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty focusing the eyes. In some cases, individuals may also have difficulty walking and performing daily tasks due to the intense dizziness. These symptoms can be highly distressing and debilitating, significantly affecting the person's quality of life.
The sudden onset of acute vestibular neuritis usually lasts for a few days to a week, and then gradually improves over the course of several weeks. However, some individuals may experience persistent symptoms for months or even years, known as chronic vestibular neuritis.
The diagnosis of acute vestibular neuritis is typically made based on the person's symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. In some cases, additional tests such as hearing tests or imaging studies may be conducted to rule out other causes of similar symptoms.
Treatment for acute vestibular neuritis mainly focuses on symptom management and includes medications to alleviate vertigo and nausea, as well as physical therapy, such as vestibular rehabilitation exercises, to improve balance and reduce dizziness. Most individuals recover fully over time, but in some cases, residual symptoms may persist.
