Treatment should always be guided by an otolaryngologist, as it is necessary to identify the cause of labyrinthitis to choose the most appropriate treatment. There are two main types of labyrinthitis, the viral, which does not require a specific treatment, and the bacterial, which needs to be treated with antibiotics.
In addition, in some cases, chronic labyrinthitis may also occur, a type of the disease that causes symptoms over several weeks or months, although not as strong as those of the first crisis, remain very uncomfortable and, therefore, should be controlled with the treatment.
How to treat labyrinthitis at home
During the first 3 days of the crisis the symptoms of dizziness and nausea are very strong and therefore it is recommended to stay at home resting, preferably lying in a comfortable position to avoid falling and causing injury.
During this time, you should drink about 2 liters of water per day to prevent dehydration and worsening of symptoms. In addition, other important recommendations include:
- Avoid situations that can cause stress or anxiety;
- Do not drive during treatment;
- Avoid turning your head or getting up quickly;
- Sit and stare to one point in case of worsening of symptoms;
- Do not smoke or be in an environment with cigarette smoke.
You should also use medicines prescribed by your doctor, and stop taking them only when it indicates, even if the symptoms have already disappeared.
Medications indicated during treatment
There are 4 main types of remedies that can be prescribed by your doctor during treatment to reduce symptoms and speed healing. They are:
- Antibiotics, such as Amoxicillin: are used only in cases of bacterial labyrinthitis to eliminate bacteria and accelerate treatment;
- Benzodiazepines such as Diazepam are medicines that reduce central nervous system activity and therefore alleviate symptoms. However, they should not be used in chronic cases, as their prolonged use may cause dependence;
- Antiemetics such as Cinarizine or Dramin are medicines that reduce nausea and vomiting and can be used instead of benzodiazepines;
- Corticosteroids, such as Prednisone: are used in cases with stronger symptoms to decrease ear inflammation and relieve symptoms.
It is important to return to the hospital when side effects occur or the symptoms worsen, causing confusion, difficulty speaking, double vision, intense weakness, tingling or changes in walking. In addition, it is also recommended to consult a doctor if symptoms do not disappear after 3 weeks.
See a more complete list of medicines that can be used in treatment.
Is there physiotherapeutic treatment?
The treatment done by a physiotherapist, known as Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, is widely used in cases of chronic labyrinthitis because it helps the brain and nervous system to compensate for the abnormal signals they receive from the ear, avoiding the development of symptoms.
During therapy, the physiotherapist makes maneuvers and mobilizations on the patient's head slowly in order to reposition the crystals present in the ear and thus improve the balance.
Natural treatment with Ginkgo Biloba
A great home-based way to improve the symptoms of labyrinthitis and complete medical treatment is to ingest Ginkgo Biloba tea, as this plant improves blood circulation in the brain, relieving symptoms of dizziness and nausea.
Ingredients
- 5 dried Ginkgo Biloba leaves
- 1 cup boiling water
Method of preparation
Crush the leaves with a pestle until you get small pieces and then add in the cup for 5 to 10 minutes. Then strain the tea and drink 2 to 3 times a day.
Other natural remedies that can help lessen the symptoms are ginger tea or echinacea.
Also see how feeding should be during treatment to relieve symptoms more quickly.
