From the Research
The treatment for chronic vestibular neuritis focuses on vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), which is the most effective approach for promoting central compensation and reducing symptoms. This therapy includes customized exercises that retrain the brain to adapt to the altered vestibular input, such as gaze stabilization exercises, balance training, and habituation exercises 1.
Key Components of VRT
- Gaze stabilization exercises to improve vision and reduce dizziness
- Balance training to enhance postural stability
- Habituation exercises to reduce symptoms of vertigo Medications are generally not recommended for long-term use but may include vestibular suppressants like meclizine (25mg every 4-6 hours as needed) or diazepam (2-5mg every 6-8 hours) for short-term symptom management during acute flares 2. These medications should be used sparingly as they can delay compensation. Some patients may benefit from antidepressants like SSRIs if anxiety or depression accompanies their condition.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Maintaining regular physical activity
- Avoiding triggers that worsen symptoms
- Ensuring adequate sleep
- Reducing stress The underlying mechanism of recovery involves neuroplasticity, where the brain learns to compensate for the damaged vestibular nerve by relying more on visual and proprioceptive inputs 3. Most patients see significant improvement within 3-6 months of consistent vestibular rehabilitation, though some may experience residual symptoms during complex balance tasks or rapid head movements 4.