Inner Ear Infection: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

When you feel dizzy, nauseous, or like the room is spinning, you might be dealing with an inner ear infection, an inflammation of the labyrinth or vestibular nerve that controls balance and hearing. Also known as labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, it’s not just a stuffy ear—it’s your balance system going offline. Unlike outer ear infections (swimmer’s ear) or middle ear infections (common in kids), inner ear infections hit deeper. They disrupt signals between your ear and brain, making simple actions like standing up or turning your head feel dangerous.

These infections often start after a cold or flu. Viruses like the ones that cause the common cold can spread to the inner ear, triggering swelling and fluid buildup. Bacteria can also sneak in, especially if you’ve had a recent middle ear infection that didn’t clear up. Vertigo, a spinning sensation that makes you feel like you or your surroundings are moving is the most common symptom. You might also notice ringing in your ear, muffled hearing, nausea, or trouble focusing your eyes. In some cases, the dizziness hits so hard people think they’re having a stroke. But unlike a stroke, inner ear infection symptoms usually get better within days to weeks—with or without treatment.

Antibiotics like cefdinir, a broad-spectrum antibiotic sometimes prescribed for bacterial ear infections in children and adults are only used if a bacterial cause is confirmed. Most cases are viral, so rest, hydration, and over-the-counter meds for nausea or dizziness are the real helpers. Doctors may also recommend vestibular rehab—a set of simple head and eye movements that train your brain to adapt to the messed-up signals from your inner ear. It sounds weird, but it works. And if you’ve had one inner ear infection, you’re more likely to get another, especially if you’re over 50 or have a history of allergies or autoimmune issues.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from people who’ve been there. You’ll see how antibiotics like cefdinir are used in infants with ear infections, how vertigo is diagnosed and managed, and what alternatives exist when standard treatments don’t cut it. There’s no fluff—just clear info on what helps, what doesn’t, and what to ask your doctor next time you feel that dizzy spin.