Vestibular Nerve

The vestibular nerve is located in the inner ear and transmits sensory information from the three semicircular canals and vestibular hair cells which are responsible for vestibular sense.

Vestibular sense are the mechanisms that monitor and adjust the body's sense of balance and orientation and is what keeps the body upright while standing, sitting, or walking. The vestibular nerve transmits information that is responsible for body positioning and maintaining visual coordination while moving. Damage to the vestibular nerve (from encephalitis, Ménière's disease, autoimmune disorders, and some medications) can cause vertigo attacks, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty with balance. The vestibular nerve can also be temporarily effected by middle and inner ear infections and cause loss of balance and coordination. This is easily treated with antibiotics.