Labyrinthitis (cont.)

Medical Author:

P John Simic, MD, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD

Medical Editor:

Richard Harrigan, MD

A doctor will ask you questions that help determine whether or not the cause is serious. These questions will include the following:
- How quickly the symptoms began
- Whether they are worse with head movement
- What other medical problems you have
- What medications you are taking
- What other symptoms you have
The doctor then will perform an exam that focuses on your ears and nervous system.
- The physician may try to reproduce the symptoms by quickly turning your head or changing your body position.
- The doctor may then prescribe a trial therapy with medications or special maneuvers while you are still in the office or emergency department to see if they work.
If the physician strongly suspects a more serious cause, the doctor may order a CT scan or MRI of your head.
A doctor usually can tell by a physical examination whether more serious conditions exist. If suspected, or if symptoms worsen or continue over time, a doctor may seek an opinion from an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or neurologist.