Health Q&A: How common cold virus can leave you in a spin
In a spin: Sudden dizziness is often caused by inflammation of the inner ear
A third of adults suffer from severe dizziness - vestibular dysfunction - at some point. There are many causes but at this time of year it is often due to an inner-ear infection called labyrinthitis. Here, the Mail on Sunday's resident expert GP answers the questions her patients most often ask about dizzy spells.
Q: I have suddenly become dizzy in the past few days and the room is spinning - what is causing it?
A: Sudden dizziness, particularly with room spinning, is often caused by labyrinthitis - inflammation of the inner ear or labyrinth, which controls our balance and posture. If it is inflamed, this ability is impaired, causing dizziness and associated nausea or vomiting (sometimes termed vertigo). Patients often notice hearing loss on one side as well. The onset is sudden because it is normally caused by a cold virus, so can develop just as quickly.
Q: Is labyrinthitis always caused by a virus?
A: Often it develops after a simple cold or sore throat, but sometimes it seems to be spontaneous. There are less common reasons, including bacterial infections or injury to the ear. It can also be a side effect of some drugs. Very rarely it is caused by a tumour.
Q: It is difficult to function - is there any treatment?
A: Labyrinthitis does cause intense dizziness for the first few days, so normal tasks are impossible. Lying down can be the only relief, so you may need a sick note. Your GP can prescribe anti-sickness tablets to help combat any nausea, and there are medicines that may reduce the vertigo slightly. If you are being sick it is important to stay hydrated.
Q: How long will a dizzy spell last?
A: Symptoms generally last for about two weeks but the first few days are normally the worst. Occasionally it can last as long as a couple of months but by this time your doctor would be looking for underlying causes other than a simple virus.
Q: What tests will I need if it does not resolve?
A: Normally, blood tests, balance and hearing tests will be carried out and then a scan such as a CT or MRI scan.
Q: What else can cause dizziness?
A: Anaemia, low blood pressure, a heart rhythm disturbance, nerve disorder, or the side effects of certain medications are all potential causes. Talking through the history of your dizziness and other symptoms with your GP will give them a good idea of where it is originating.
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