Vestibular Neuronitis: Symptoms and Treatment

Vestibular neuronitis is a condition that affects the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for sending balance and spatial orientation signals from the inner ear to the brain. When this nerve becomes inflamed, it can lead to severe vertigo, dizziness, and balance issues, significantly impacting daily life. Vestibular physiotherapy Edmonton At Next Step Physiotherapy , we specialize in treating vestibular disorders like vestibular neuronitis, helping patients regain balance and function.

Symptoms of Vestibular Neuronitis

The primary symptom of vestibular neuronitis is sudden, intense vertigo, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The onset of these symptoms is typically abrupt, often following a viral infection such as the flu or a cold. Here are the most common symptoms associated with vestibular neuronitis:

Severe Vertigo

Vertigo is the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when you're actually stationary. In vestibular neuronitis, this vertigo can be so intense that it disrupts everyday activities and may make standing or walking difficult.

Dizziness

Alongside vertigo, patients often experience persistent dizziness. This may linger even after the initial attack of vertigo subsides and can contribute to a feeling of unsteadiness.

Nausea and Vomiting

The combination of vertigo and dizziness can lead to nausea, and in severe cases, vomiting. These symptoms are particularly distressing and can cause dehydration if they persist.

Balance Issues

Due to the disruption in the vestibular system, patients with vestibular neuronitis often experience difficulty maintaining balance, especially when walking or turning their head quickly.

Concentration Difficulties

Vestibular neuronitis can make it hard to focus or concentrate. The constant sense of dizziness and imbalance can interfere with cognitive tasks, leading to mental fatigue.

Unlike other vestibular conditions, vestibular neuronitis typically does not affect hearing. This is an important distinguishing feature from conditions like Ménière's disease, where hearing loss is often present.

Treatment for Vestibular Neuronitis

Treatment for vestibular neuronitis focuses on managing the symptoms and helping the body compensate for the loss of balance function. At Next Step Physiotherapy, our team offers a range of therapeutic interventions designed to help patients recover as quickly as possible.

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is one of the most effective treatments for vestibular neuronitis. VRT involves specific exercises that help the brain adapt to changes in the balance system and compensate for the loss of vestibular function. These exercises focus on:

Gradual Return to Normal Activity

As symptoms improve, it’s important to gradually return to normal activities. Moving too quickly or pushing through dizziness can slow recovery. Our team at Next Step Physiotherapy will guide you through a safe and gradual return to your regular routine, ensuring that you regain balance and confidence.

Conclusion

Vestibular neuronitis can be a debilitating condition, but with proper treatment and rehabilitation, most patients experience significant improvement over time. At Next Step Physiotherapy in Edmonton, we offer specialized vestibular rehabilitation therapy to help patients recover balance, reduce dizziness, and return to their normal activities. If you or a loved one is struggling with vestibular neuronitis, our team is here to help you on the path to recovery.

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