Understanding Sudden Hearing Loss: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

People often notice a sudden hearing loss when they wake up in the morning and notice their hearing doesn’t feel as sharp or clear in comparison to the day before. Sudden hearing loss can occur in one or both ears, and there are a variety of potential causes, including viral infections, head trauma, exposure to loud noises, and certain medications. A sudden hearing loss can occur over a period of hours, or over a period of up to three days. It is crucial to receive an accurate diagnosis, as the type of hearing loss can determine the most effective treatment options. Sudden hearing loss can result in a permanent hearing loss if treatment is not provided promptly.

The severity of a sudden hearing loss can vary for every person but often causes a noticeable difference in the perception of most sounds. When a sudden loss occurs in one ear, people may only notice this hearing loss when they put earphones in their ears or hold the phone to one ear and notice one ear sounds dull compared to the other ear.

A sudden hearing loss can also cause tinnitus which is a ringing or buzzing noise in one or both ears. This sudden onset of tinnitus may be alerting you that your hearing has quickly declined.

If you notice a rapid loss of hearing, it is essential to seek an urgent hearing assessment by an audiologist. A hearing test needs to be completely immediately to identify the cause as soon as possible. A hearing test is a simple procedure that can determine the extent and nature of your hearing loss. Your hearing test results will be plotted on a graph called an audiogram, which can help identify the type and severity of your hearing loss. These hearing test results can be delivered to your GP and if a sudden sensorineural hearing loss is present, the GP may prescribe a high dose of steroids to try and restore your hearing.

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot pass through the outer or middle ear, usually due to blockages or damage. In some cases, conductive hearing loss can be temporary and easily resolved with medical treatment, such as antibiotics or surgery.

Sensorineural hearing loss involves damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve, which can result in permanent hearing loss. A prompt hearing test is crucial in these cases, as early intervention can improve the chances of recovery and prevent permanent hearing damage.

Once a hearing loss has been diagnosed, your healthcare provider and audiologist can work together to determine the best treatment plan for you depending on the cause of your hearing loss.

Sudden hearing loss is a hearing emergency that requires urgent audiological assessment to identify the cause and begin treatment as soon as possible. If you are experiencing a sudden loss of hearing, seek medical attention right away to ensure the best possible outcome. With timely medical care and preventative measures, your hearing has the potential to return to normal.