Labyrinthitis

Alternate Names : Inner Ear Infection, Otitis Interna

Labyrinthitis is inflammation of the inner ear, usually due to an infection.

What is going on in the body?

The inner ear has two main functions. The first is to turn sounds into electrical signals that are sent to the brain. The second function is to aid in balance. When the inner ear gets inflamed, usually from an infection, hearing and balance may be impaired.

What are the causes and risks of the infection?

Labyrinthitis usually follows an infection in another part of the body, such as acute otitis media or meningitis. A person may also develop labyrinthitis suddenly without another apparent infection. In these cases, the cause is thought to be a viral infection of the inner ear itself.