Vertigo After a Cold or Ear Infection: What You Should Know

Experiencing vertigo after a cold or ear infection can be unsettling. That dizzy, spinning sensation often comes unexpectedly, leaving many unsure what’s happening or how to manage it. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you find relief and know when to seek professional care.

What causes vertigo after a cold or ear infection?

Vertigo is most often caused by inner ear conditions affecting balance. Following a cold or ear infection, inflammation in the inner ear or vestibular nerve can disrupt the signals between your ear and brain, leading to vertigo.

Here are the most common conditions:

1. Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is an inner ear infection that inflames the labyrinth, a coiled part of the inner ear responsible for balance and hearing. It’s usually caused by a viral infection that develops during or after a cold. Symptoms include vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears.

2. Vestibular Neuronitis

Vestibular neuronitis occurs when the vestibular nerve, which helps control balance, becomes inflamed. Like labyrinthitis, it’s typically caused by a viral infection. While hearing usually remains unaffected, the vertigo can be intense, lasting days or even weeks.

3. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV occurs when tiny calcium particles in the inner ear become dislodged and interfere with balance signals. Though often triggered by changes in head position, BPPV can sometimes follow an ear infection. The Epley manoeuvre, performed by specialists, is a common treatment to resolve this issue.

Symptoms of vertigo after a cold

Post-cold vertigo can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  • A spinning or swaying sensation (even when still)
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of balance
  • Difficulty focusing or moving your head

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may last for a few seconds, hours, or even days.

Managing vertigo symptoms at home

While you wait to see a specialist, certain measures can help ease vertigo symptoms:

  • Rest in a dark, quiet room to minimise the sensation of spinning.
  • Move carefully – avoid sudden head movements and get up slowly.
  • Sleep with your head slightly elevated using extra pillows.
  • Sit down immediately if you start to feel dizzy to avoid falling.
  • Stay calm – anxiety can worsen symptoms. Take deep breaths to relax.

These steps can provide temporary relief, but it’s essential to see a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment.

Treatment options for vertigo

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of vertigo:

  • Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): A set of balance exercises designed to help your brain adapt to confusing signals from your inner ear.
  • Epley Manoeuvre: A specific head-positioning technique to treat BPPV.
  • Medication: Anti-vertigo drugs can relieve symptoms like nausea and dizziness, though they target the symptoms, not the cause.
  • Surgical Procedures: In rare cases, procedures like chemical labyrinthectomy or vestibular nerve section may be required if other treatments fail.

When to see a specialist

If vertigo persists or significantly impacts your daily life, it’s important to seek help from an ENT specialist. Recurring or severe symptoms may signal an underlying condition requiring further investigation and treatment.In conclusion, vertigo following a cold or ear infection is often linked to inner ear inflammation but can be managed with proper care. If you’re struggling with persistent vertigo, consulting Mr Wale Olarinde, an ENT expert, can help you find relief and address the underlying cause effectively. Book your consultation today.