Virus on the balance nerve (Neuritis vestibularis)

Fortunately, a "virus on the vestibular nerve" is not actually a virus. The condition we refer to in Danish as "virus on the vestibular nerve" is not a virus at all. In English, it is called "vestibular neuritis" – an irritation of the nerve or organ – and this is the term we also use in medical language.

In other words, there is no basis for believing that the condition is viral or contagious.

"Virus on the vestibular nerve" is, therefore, an unfortunate term for a dizziness condition that occurs suddenly, causing the patient to experience severe dizziness, nausea, and typically vomiting – just like being seasick. Normally, it resolves on its own, but since the symptoms can also be triggered by a stroke in the brain, cerebellum, or brainstem, it is important to be thoroughly examined as soon as possible.

At Charlottenlund Privathospital, our specialists have access to advanced VHIT equipment, which, combined with a thorough neurological examination, has been shown through large studies to exclude strokes and brain hemorrhages with greater certainty than both CT and MRI scans combined.

Typically, you feel very unwell during the first two days, with most people being virtually bedridden, unable to leave the house due to severe nausea and vomiting. As a result, most patients don't seek medical help until a few days later, as they are simply too ill during the first few days. After this initial period, many experience gradual improvement over the following weeks, but the effects of vestibular neuritis can last for many months. However, many people do fully recover, and prompt intervention with rehabilitation exercises is crucial for a good outcome. Your specialist at Charlottenlund Privathospital will therefore always provide you with exercises to start as part of your recovery.

Yes, the symptoms caused by vestibular neuritis can be difficult to distinguish from a stroke in the cerebellum. Although you are typically CT scanned and sometimes also MR scanned in emergency departments, it is only when a specialist in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) disorders examines you with a VHIT (Video Head Impulse Test) system that you can be 100% sure that nothing more serious is going on. Therefore, it is crucial to be examined by a specialist as quickly as possible.

At Charlottenlund Privathospital, all our specialists are trained in the use of the VHIT system, ensuring you receive a thorough and accurate diagnosis.