Imagine waking up one morning and realising you can't hear as well as you could the day before. This alarming experience is known as sudden hearing loss, a condition that affects thousands of people each year. In this post, we'll explore what sudden hearing loss is, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, as well as what you can do if you or a loved one experiences this unsettling condition.
What Is Sudden Hearing Loss?
Sudden hearing loss, also known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), is a rapid onset of hearing impairment that can occur in one or both ears. The hearing loss may happen instantly or over a few days, and it can range from mild to severe. In some cases, people may also experience tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or dizziness along with the hearing loss.
Why Immediate Attention Is Crucial
If you experience sudden hearing loss, it's essential to seek medical attention right away. Delaying treatment can decrease the likelihood of recovering your hearing. Sudden hearing loss is considered a medical emergency, and the sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of regaining your hearing.
Common Causes of Sudden Hearing Loss
There are numerous potential causes of sudden hearing loss, although in many cases, the exact cause remains unknown. Some common causes include:
Viral Infections
Viral infections, such as mumps, measles, or herpes, can damage the inner ear and lead to sudden hearing loss.
Ear Trauma or Injury
A head injury, acoustic trauma from loud noises, or changes in air pressure (such as during air travel) can cause sudden hearing loss.
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases like Cogan's syndrome or lupus can cause the body's immune system to attack the inner ear, resulting in sudden hearing loss.
Blood Circulation Issues
Conditions that affect blood flow, such as sickle cell anaemia or a mini-stroke, can disrupt the blood supply to the inner ear and cause sudden hearing loss.
Medication and Ototoxic Drugs
Certain medications, particularly those used to treat cancer or severe infections, can damage the inner ear and lead to sudden hearing loss.
Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss
How to Recognize Sudden Hearing Loss
The primary symptom of sudden hearing loss is a rapid onset of hearing impairment in one or both ears. You may notice that sounds seem muffled or distorted, or you may have difficulty understanding speech.
Sudden Hearing Loss in One Ear
Sudden hearing loss can affect just one ear, a condition known as unilateral hearing loss (take a look at our blog: Unilateral Hearing Loss Explained for more details.) In these cases, you may have trouble locating the source of sounds or understanding conversations in noisy environments.
Accompanying Symptoms
In some cases, sudden hearing loss may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ears)
- Vertigo or dizziness
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Nausea or vomiting
If you experience any of these symptoms along with sudden hearing loss, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
Diagnosis of Sudden Hearing Loss
If you suspect you have sudden hearing loss, your doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the cause and extent of your hearing impairment. This may include:
Medical History and Physical Examination
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, any recent illnesses or injuries, and your medical history. They will also examine your ears, nose, and throat for any signs of infection or damage.
Audiometry Tests
An audiologist will conduct a series of hearing tests to assess your hearing ability and determine the severity of your hearing loss. These tests may include pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and tympanometry.
Imaging Tests
In some cases, your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan to rule out any underlying conditions, such as a tumour or a stroke.
Ruling Out Other Conditions
Your doctor will also work to rule out other conditions that can cause sudden hearing loss, such as earwax buildup, Ménière's disease, or a side effect of medication.
Treatment Options for Sudden Hearing Loss
The treatment for sudden hearing loss depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your hearing impairment. Some common treatment options include:
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can help reduce inflammation in the inner ear and promote healing. These medications are typically administered orally or through an injection into the middle ear.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
In some cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be recommended to increase the oxygen supply to the inner ear and promote healing.
Addressing Underlying Causes
If an underlying condition, such as an autoimmune disease or an infection, is causing your sudden hearing loss, treating that condition may help restore your hearing.
When Surgery Is Needed
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the inner ear or to remove a tumour that is causing hearing loss.
What to Do If You Experience Sudden Hearing Loss
If you experience sudden hearing loss, it's essential to take the following steps:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or visit an emergency room right away. Remember, sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial.
Avoiding Further Damage
While you wait for medical attention, avoid exposing your ears to loud noises or engaging in activities that could worsen your hearing loss.
Can Sudden Hearing Loss Be Prevented?
While not all cases of sudden hearing loss can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
Protecting Your Ears from Loud Noises
Wear earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones when exposed to loud sounds, and follow the 60/60 rule when listening to music through headphones (60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time).
Managing Health Conditions
If you have a health condition that increases your risk of sudden hearing loss, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, work with your doctor to manage it effectively.
Avoiding Ototoxic Medications
Talk to your doctor about any medications you're taking that could potentially damage your hearing, and discuss alternative options if necessary.
How Long Does Sudden Hearing Loss Last?
The duration of sudden hearing loss varies from person to person. In some cases, hearing may return to normal within a few days or weeks. However, for others, the hearing loss may be permanent. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of recovering your hearing.
If you experience permanent hearing loss due to SSHL, hearing aids can help you regain your ability to communicate and engage with the world around you. At Hear Clear, we offer a wide range of high-quality hearing aids to suit your specific needs. Shop hearing aids online today and take the first step towards better hearing.
Final Thoughts
Sudden hearing loss can be a frightening experience, but it's essential to remember that prompt treatment can make a significant difference in your recovery. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sudden hearing loss, you can take swift action if you or a loved one experiences this condition.
At Hear Clear, we're dedicated to providing the information, support, and hearing solutions you need to navigate your hearing health journey. If you have any questions or concerns about sudden hearing loss or other hearing-related issues, don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We're here to help you every step of the way.
