H83.0: Labyrinthitis

The ear is a sensory organ that is used to hear and to maintain one’s balance. There are 3 different areas in the ear: the outer ear, middle ear and inner ear. The inner ear is made up of a series of bony canals filled with fluid. The inner ear contains the organs of hearing and balance. The organ of hearing is also called the cochlea because it is a spiral-shaped bony canal. Inside the cochlea are the sensory cells for hearing. The organ of balance is made up of three semicircular bony canals. The inner ear connects to the brain via the auditory nerve and the vestibular nerve.

The inner ear gets inflamed by pathogens, for example. It may be that the middle ear becomes inflamed first. This inflammation can spread. The inner ear can also become inflamed as a result.

When the inner ear is inflamed, one may experience various symptoms. One might be dizzy. Sometimes one also has balance problems. The person may then find it difficult to ride a bicycle. One’s hearing may be worse than usual.

Patient Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.

If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.

For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.