What Is Vestibular Neuritis?

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Farha Naaz Kazi , ENT


Vestibular neuritis is an inner ear disorder that occurs when the vestibular nerve, which transmits balance and spatial orientation signals to the brain, becomes inflamed.

This inflammation can disrupt communication between the inner ear and the brain, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues.

What are the Vestibular Neuritis Symptoms and Warning Signs?

Vestibular neuritis symptoms can appear suddenly, and symptoms can be mild or severe. Recognising these signs early can help ensure timely treatment and prevent long-term complications.

Common Symptoms of Vestibular Neuritis

Vestibular Neuritis Severe Symptoms

  • Sudden, intense vertigo lasting for days
  • Rapid, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus)
  • Trouble focusing or visual instability during head movements

What are the Different Types of Vestibular Neuritis?

Vestibular neuritis may present in two major forms, depending on symptom duration and severity.

Acute Vestibular Neuritis

  • Sudden onset
  • Severe vertigo, nausea, and balance issues
  • Typically, it lasts from a few days to a week

Chronic Vestibular Neuritis

  • Symptoms persist for months or longer
  • Ongoing dizziness and imbalance
  • Often affects quality of life and mobility

What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Vestibular Neuritis?

Knowing what causes vestibular neuritis can help to treat and prevent it. It's often linked to viral infections but may have other triggers.

Vestibular Neuritis Causes

Vestibular Neuritis Risk Factors

  • Weak immune system due to stress or fatigue
  • Exposure to individuals with viral illnesses
  • Existing autoimmune conditions
  • Poor hygiene practices lead to increased infection risk

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

How is Vestibular Neuritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on physical exams and specific tests to rule out other causes of vertigo and balance problems.

Common Diagnostic Procedures of Vestibular Neuritis

  • Clinical evaluation of symptoms and medical history
  • Vestibular function tests like Electronystagmography (ENG) or Videonystagmography (VNG)
  • Imaging (MRI or CT scan) to rule out tumors or structural brain/ear issues
  • Hearing tests to differentiate vestibular neuritis from labyrinthitis

What are the Treatment Options for Vestibular Neuritis?

The primary goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, manage vertigo, and promote recovery of balance function.

Vestibular Neuritis Medications

  • Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
  • Antiviral drugs if a viral infection is suspected
  • Antiemetics for nausea and vomiting
  • Antihistamines to ease dizziness

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)

  • Gaze stabilisation and habituation exercises
  • Balance training to restore coordination
  • Customised physiotherapy plans by Medicover specialists

Lifestyle Changes for Vestibular Neuritis

  • Proper rest and sleep
  • Staying hydrated
  • Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, or triggering medications
  • Stress-reduction techniques like yoga and meditation

When to See a Doctor?

If symptoms such as vertigo or dizziness persist for more than a few days or worsen over time, consult a specialist.

High-risk groups

  • People with immune system disorders
  • Those with a recent history of viral infections
  • Individuals with recurring balance issues

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

schedule appointment Consult Vestibular Neuritis Doctors Today

What is the Recovery Process After Vestibular Neuritis Treatment?

Recovery times vary depending on the severity, but many patients improve within a few weeks. Chronic cases may require longer rehabilitation.

Post-Treatment Care

  • Continue VRT exercises as advised
  • Avoid sudden head movements initially
  • Maintain hydration and rest
  • Follow up with ENT or neurology specialists at Medicover

Medicover Support

Our team ensures long-term recovery through personalised rehab programs, regular monitoring, and supportive care.


What Precautions Can Help Prevent Vestibular Neuritis?

While not always preventable, adopting healthy habits can reduce your risk.

Vestibular Neuritis Prevention Tips

  • Maintain proper hygiene to avoid viral infections
  • Get flu vaccinations regularly
  • Stay physically active and manage stress levels
  • Avoid exposure to infected individuals

Possible Vestibular Neuritis Complications if Left Untreated

  • Long-term balance issues
  • Chronic dizziness
  • Impact on quality of life

Our Experience Treating Vestibular Neuritis

At Medicover, we offer compassionate and expert care for individuals suffering from vestibular neuritis, utilising our advanced diagnostic tools and dedicated vestibular rehabilitation programs.

We ensure every patient receives personalised treatment to regain their balance, mobility, and quality of life.


Book Doctor Appointment
Book Free Appointment

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, mild cases can improve without treatment, but seeing a specialist helps speed up recovery and reduce the risk of balance issues lingering too long.

No, most people recover fully with medications and vestibular therapy, though dizziness and imbalance may last several weeks.

It's safer to delay travel until symptoms like vertigo and nausea improve, as movement can worsen discomfort and disorientation.

The condition itself isn't contagious, but if caused by a virus, that virus may spread, especially in close contact settings.

Stress doesn't directly cause it, but it can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to the viral infections linked to it.

Treatment is usually handled by ENT specialists or neurologists, depending on how the symptoms present and how severe they are.

Book Appointment Second Opinion WhatsApp Health Packages Find Doctors

Feeling unwell?

Request a callback!