Dizziness refers to a spinning sensation or unsteadiness that can occur as the result of an inner ear problem. Sometimes, an infection can attack the nerves in the ear and also lead to dizziness. Fortunately, the conditions that cause dizziness have several treatment options.
Meniere's Disease
Meniere's disease refers to an ear problem that begins in the inner ear. According to the Mayo Clinic, people in their 40s and 50s typically develop this condition. Symptoms of Meniere's disease include recurring dizziness, hearing loss, vomiting, nausea, tinnitus and the feeling that the ears are full. The cause for Meniere's disease is still unclear.
Treatment for Meniere's disease involves taking medications like meclizine to control motion sickness and prochlorperazine to control nausea. Other treatments involve taking diuretic medications such as hydrochlorothiazide, limiting salt intake and avoiding caffeine. Other treatment options involve quitting smoking and managing stress and anxiety. Also, receiving inner injections of gentamicin and steroids can also help manage Meniere's disease. Surgery can also be used to manage Meniere's disease.
Vestibular Neuritis and Labyrinthitis
Vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis refers to a viral infection which actually affects the vestibular nerve in the ear. According to the American Hearing Research Foundation, vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis lead to such symptoms as dizziness, nausea and unsteadiness. A virus typically causes these conditions.
Treatment for vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis includes taking medications such as meclizine, lorazepam or diazepam to manage symptoms. Also, acyclovir and prednisone can also be used to manage these conditions.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) refers to a condition associated with sudden dizziness, vomiting, nausea, unsteadiness, lightheadedness and blurry vision. BPPV occurs when certain crystals in the inner ear become shaken out of position.
Treatment for BPPV involves performing different maneuvers of the head in order to restore the crystals in the original place. This will decrease the symptoms of BPPV. Sometimes, surgery may be necessary to treat BPPV.
Otosclerosis
Otosclerosis refers to a condition in which bone grows within the middle ear, says the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Symptoms of otosclerosis include gradual hearing loss, balance problems, dizziness, ringing, roaring or buzzing in the ears. It is unclear how otosclerosis develops but it may be inherited. Sometimes, hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to otosclerosis.
A hearing aid and surgery are options available to manage otosclerosis.
