Symptoms

• One of the common symptoms of labyrinthitis is vertigo, a feeling of dizziness that occurs with movements of the head. Your equilibrium may be compromised, resulting in a diminished sense of balance. You may also experience hearing loss or a ringing in the ear, as well as involuntary movements of the eyes. Beyond this, you may experience symptoms of nausea and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult with a physician immediately.
  
  

Medical Treatment

• Treating an ear infection is focused on alleviating symptoms while it heals on its own. This can include antihistamines, especially if the condition is caused by allergies, and corticosteroids to help reduce inflammations. Antiemetics such as prochlorperazine can be prescribed to control nausea and vomiting if severe enough to warrant treatment, and scopalamine, a small patch placed behind the ear, can be used to treat dizziness. If you are having trouble sleeping, a sedative may be prescribed, such as Valium. In some cases, the infection may be bacterial in nature. If this is the case, your doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics.
  
  

Home Treatment

• The symptoms of labyrinthitis can be treated at home, and is focused on eliminating their frequency. Since much of the symptoms occur during movement, you should take care to avoid sudden changes in movement, allowing yourself time to rest as often as possible. Avoid excessive reading or bright lights, which can enhance the feelings of dizziness. In addition, you should not drive until symptoms clear up, as dizziness can increase the risk of an accident. If you're having difficulty walking, a cane or help from a friend or family member can reduce the risk of injury.
  
  

Side Effects

• Side effects vary depending on the type of medication used. Antiemetics can cause drowsiness, blurred vision, a drop in blood pressure, rash and involuntary movements. The primary side effect of antihistamines and scopolamine is drowsiness, which is often accompanied by blurred vision or dry mouth. Sedatives can cause fatigue and a diminished sense of coordination, and if used in excess, can become habit-forming. The risk of this occurring is increased if you already have a dependency on another substance, such as alcohol.
  
  

Prognosis and Prevention

• If used according to the directions, symptoms of labyrinthitis may only provide minimal interference with your day-to-day activities as the condition heals. In cases where severe vomiting occurs and is not helped with medication, you may need to be hospitalized to replenish lost liquids and nutrients. If you suspect you have a respiratory infection or an ear infection, consult with your doctor to begin prompt treatment. This will reduce the risk of labyrinthitis developing in the first place.