Vestibular neuronitis

Vestibular Neuronitis

Vestibular neuronitis (pronunciation: ves-ti-byoo-lar noor-uh-nahy-tis) is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for sending balance and head position signals from the inner ear to the brain. This condition often leads to sudden, severe vertigo (a sensation of spinning), and can also cause problems with balance.

Etymology

The term "vestibular neuronitis" is derived from three words: "vestibular", referring to the vestibular system in the inner ear that regulates balance; "neuro", a prefix from the Greek word "neuron" meaning nerve; and "itis", a suffix used in medical terminology to denote inflammation. Thus, "vestibular neuronitis" essentially means inflammation of the vestibular nerve.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of vestibular neuronitis is severe vertigo that occurs suddenly. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, unsteadiness, difficulty with concentration, and nystagmus (involuntary eye movement).

Causes

Vestibular neuronitis is most commonly caused by a viral infection, such as the herpes simplex virus. Other potential causes include bacterial infections, although this is less common.

Treatment

Treatment for vestibular neuronitis primarily involves managing symptoms. This can include medications to reduce nausea and inflammation, as well as vestibular rehabilitation therapy, a form of physical therapy that helps improve balance and reduce dizziness.

Related Terms

• Vertigo
• Vestibular nerve
• Vestibular system
• Inner ear
• Nystagmus

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Vestibular neuronitis
• Wikipedia's article - Vestibular neuronitis

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