When a person loses their hearing, their world can change in a second. Read on to learn more about the causes of sudden hearing loss, how it’s diagnosed, and what to do.
What Is Sudden Hearing Loss?
Sudden hearing loss, also known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss or sudden deafness, is a serious medical condition. Sudden hearing loss in one ear only is what typically occurs. People can lose their hearing instantly or over a period of several days. Time is of the essence when it comes to sudden hearing loss, as getting evaluated within the first 72 hours of the loss gives a person the best opportunity to reverse their condition and preserve their hearing.
Causes of Sudden Hearing Loss
A number of health conditions can cause sudden hearing loss. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, these conditions can include an infection, trauma to the head, an autoimmune disease, exposure to medications (such as certain antibiotics or chemotherapies), problems with blood circulation, neurologic conditions, and inner ear disorders like Meniere’s disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss
Signs and symptoms of sudden hearing loss include the feeling of something plugging the ear canal (such as a “fullness”), feeling off balance or dizzy, or having the sensation of ringing in the ears. People may notice sudden hearing loss come on from one moment to the next, or they may not be able to pinpoint a specific time of the loss because they awake from sleep and notice the loss.
Diagnosis of Sudden Hearing Loss
People who are experiencing sudden hearing loss should see an audiologist as soon as possible for an evaluation. An audiologist will first ask about the circumstances surrounding the hearing loss. Then, they will examine the ear canal to make sure the hearing loss is not due to fluid or ear wax that is blocking the ear canal. If no obstruction is seen, a test called pure tone audiometry can help an audiologist measure the degree of hearing loss. Depending on the results of this exam and the amount of hearing loss present, an audiologist may consider additional testing to help determine the exact cause of the loss, such as blood tests, balance tests, or imaging tests.
Treatment of Sudden Hearing Loss
The treatment of sudden hearing loss depends on the underlying cause of the condition. However, one of the most common forms of treatment is a medication known as a corticosteroid that can help reduce inflammation. These medicines can be given as a pill or as an injection into the ear. To maximize the chance of restoring hearing loss, it’s important to receive this treatment as soon as possible. If the hearing loss cannot be treated with steroids, or if too much time has passed for treatment to be effective, then an audiologist can help optimize hearing by recommending an assistive device such as a hearing aid or a surgical procedure known as a Cochlear implant.
What to Do About Sudden Hearing Loss
Sudden hearing loss can be alarming, but getting help within a short time frame can help people determine the cause of their condition and also ensure that treatment is started as soon as possible. People who have experienced sudden hearing loss should contact the professional audiologists at Sonora Hearing today.