What is Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is rapid loss of hearing either all at once or over a few days. SSNHL happens because there is something wrong with the sensory organs of the inner ear. SSNHL has a number of causes, ranging from the simple and reversible to the profound and permanent.
Causes and Common Symptoms
There are many reasons why SSNHL can occur, and often the exact cause is unknown. Some causes include:
- Viral infections
- Autoimmune disorders
- Circulatory disruptions
- Membrane rupture within the cochlea (hearing organ)
- Ototoxic (harmful to the cochlea as a side effect) medication
- Trauma related to the head and/or neck area
- A growth impacting on the hearing nerve
Common symptoms include:
- Distorted sound perception
- Sudden loss of hearing
- Hearing a loud pop followed by a drop in hearing
- A sensation of fullness in the ears
- Ringing, buzzing, humming (known as tinnitus) on one side
- Vertigo or dizziness/imbalance
Managing and Treating SSNHL
Treatment is most effective when delivered within the first 72 hours of SSHL onset. This typically includes a steroid medication (delivered either orally or via injection) which works by reducing inflammation, decreasing swelling, and helping the body fight illness and infection. In some cases it will significantly improve or restore the loss of hearing that has occurred; this recovery can progress over a few weeks or up to a few months. In some instances however, hearing may not recover.
What do I do if I suspect I am experiencing SSNHL or hearing loss?
Should you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to act quickly. Get in touch with your local audiologist to obtain an audiogram (a measure of your current hearing level) and book in with an ENT specialist who can accurately treat SSNHL. Alternatively, if this is not an option, please visit your closest Eye and Ear Hospital.
At Abi Hearing we are able to quickly see you and evaluate your hearing health. You should not hesitate to
book an appointment with our team of expert audiologists should you have any concerns. We can help test and diagnose a wide range of hearing issues and are also partnered with North Melbourne and Williamstown ENTs.
