Dizziness can often be caused by ear infection
Dear Dr. Donohue: I was struck with a case of dizziness that was unbelievable. I had to stay in bed for two days because I was so unsteady that I knew I would fall if I tried to walk. I am now in my second week of this, and things have improved but haven’t gone away. The doctor says I have labyrinthitis. I need information on it. When does it go away? — L.L.
ANSWER: The labyrinth is the part of the inner ear where the balance organs are located. Inflammation of the labyrinth — labyrinthitis — makes people feel like they are spinning in space. As a result, they are frequently nauseated and often vomit. They might suffer a slight hearing impairment, and their ears might ring.
Labyrinthitis is usually due to a viral infection.
Medicines can lessen labyrinthitis-induced dizziness, but they rarely completely eliminate it. Antivert is a popularly used medicine. The Transderm Scop skin patch, a seasickness treatment, is another medicine that controls dizziness.
Two days in bed for dizziness is enough. Even if people feel unsteady, they should walk with assistance. Walking helps the brain right itself when it gets confusing messages from the balance organs.
People are generally over a bout of labyrinthitis in a few weeks to a month or so. If matters do not clear up by then, the doctor can refer patients for vestibular rehabilitation. The vestibule and labyrinth are more or less synonyms. Therapists teach head and eye movements that restore inner ear function so dizziness and balance are no longer problems. For most, however, nature takes its course, usually without leaving any permanent problems.
The Vertigo and Balance pamphlet explains the conditions that cause dizziness and their treatments. Readers can obtain a copy by writing: Dr. Donohue — No. 801W, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.50 U.S./$6.50 Canada with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery.
DEAR DR. DONOHUE: Why is it necessary to get a urine test if you’re getting blood tests too? Don’t blood tests give you all the information needed? What more does a urine test do?
I ask the question because I have no medical insurance and am on a fixed income. I have to keep my medical costs to a minimum. — L.K.
ANSWER: Urine tests provide information that blood tests don’t.
Only a urine test can provide proof of a urinary tract infection, and only a urine test can be used to identify the germ that causes such an infection.
A urine test provides valuable information on how well the kidneys function. No protein should appear in urine. If it does, that’s an indication that the kidneys have developed a problem needing investigation.