Vertigo is a term restricted to describing a sensation of motion, often described as if the room is spinning, and usually points to an origin in the vestibular end organs of the ear. Benign positional vertigo refers to a condition where the patient notes acute attacks of transient dizziness with a certain position of the head. Nystagmus that fatigues on repeated testing is seen. The initial attack is usually the most severe with subsequent attacks decreasing in intensity. There is usually a delay of a few seconds between the change in position and the symptoms.
Treatment is supportive, and the process usually resolves spontaneously.
Vestibular neuronitis is a disorder in which the patient complains of severe dizziness associated with nausea, vomiting and the inability to stand or walk. Symptoms may last for three or four days, and some patients may have to be hospitalized for dehydration. Unsteadiness and imbalance will usually occur for several months after the initial episode. Hearing loss is uncommon. Labyrinthitis is an inflammatory process that involves the inner ear.