I was recently diagnosed with labyrinthitis, a middle ear condition that affects balance and equilibrium. I was given meclizine for vertigo and was told it could recur and last for an indefinite time. Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the labyrinth, the system of tubes and sacs that make up the inner ear. This kind of inflammation may be due to a bacterial or a viral infection and can affect your hearing and cause vertigo.
Treatment depends on the nature of the infection.
It clears up on its own. Symptoms include hearing problems, dizziness, vertigo, and nausea. The meclizine your doctor prescribed is an antihistamine that can reduce the inflammation that directly causes vertigo and nausea. If it's working for you, continue taking it. However, for many people, it often causes drowsiness and doesn't work very well.