Brazilian President Lula diagnosed with labyrinthitis, adding to growing list of recent health concerns

Brasília: Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was diagnosed Monday with labyrinthitis, an inner ear condition that can cause vertigo, marking the latest in a string of health setbacks for the 79-year-old leader.

The president was examined at a hospital in Brasília before returning to the presidential residence with medical orders to rest, the government said.

Lula, who returned to power in 2023 after previously serving two terms from 2003 to 2010, has faced a number of health issues over the years. In 2011, he was treated for throat cancer with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. He also has a history of hypertension and underwent hip replacement surgery in 2023.

In a serious incident earlier this year, Lula suffered a fall in the bathroom of his official residence, which resulted in a concussion, multiple stitches and a cerebral haemorrhage that required surgery. The fall was reminiscent of a 2023 incident in which a bathroom accident also caused a skull haemorrhage.

Despite these challenges, Lula resumed an intense schedule following his recovery, travelling internationally to China, Russia, Vietnam and Japan, and maintaining a full agenda of domestic meetings.

However, on Monday, a source in the presidency told Agence France-Presse that Lula had “cancelled part of his schedule” due to ongoing discomfort. The official requested anonymity as they were not authorised to speak publicly.

What is Labyrinthitis?

Labyrinthitis is a disorder of the inner ear that affects balance and spatial orientation. The condition occurs when one of the two vestibular nerves—responsible for transmitting information to the brain about motion and balance—becomes inflamed.

This inflammation can trigger a range of symptoms, most commonly dizziness, nausea, hearing loss, and vertigo. Vertigo is a type of dizziness that gives the false sensation of movement, often described as spinning, even when stationary. It can significantly disrupt daily activities such as driving or working.

The condition typically comes on suddenly and may be severe for several days. While symptoms tend to improve within a few weeks, some individuals may continue to feel unsteady, especially when making sudden head movements. Labyrinthitis is not usually associated with pain.

A number of factors can lead to labyrinthitis, including viral and bacterial infections. Respiratory infections like bronchitis, stomach bugs, herpes viruses, and middle ear infections are known causes. In rare cases, illnesses such as Lyme disease may also trigger it.

There is no known method for preventing labyrinthitis, but prompt treatment of ear infections may reduce the risk. Treatment primarily focuses on easing symptoms through medication and self-care techniques. Most people recover fully within one to two months. Labyrinthitis can affect individuals of any age.

The growing list of health concerns has fuelled speculation about Lula’s ability to seek re-election in 2026, with political observers increasingly scrutinising his fitness for another term in office.

(With inputs from AFP)