What is Sudden Hearing Loss?
Sudden hearing loss is when someone experiences a decline in their hearing ability over a short period, usually within a few hours or days. It can affect one or both ears and may be accompanied by other symptoms like ringing in the ears or dizziness.
What can cause Sudden Hearing Loss?
- Idiopathic Sudden Hearing Loss
- Ear wax impaction
- Ear Infection
- Ear drum perforation
- High fever
- Ototoxic Medications such as
- Aminoglycoside Antibiotics including gentamicin, amikacin, and tobramycin
- Loop Diuretics
- Chemotherapeutics
- Noise exposure
Time is Critical
The first 72 hours are critical for sudden hearing loss.
In many cases, sudden hearing loss can be resolved with treatment of steroids if they are given as soon as possible.
Steroid treatment is most effective within the first 72 hours but can be effective within 2 weeks of the onset of hearing loss.
Even if you think you may have an ear wax impaction or an ear infection; you should attend an audiologist for a comprehensive evaluation
What should you do if you think you notice a sudden change in your hearing
Contact one of our Audiologists and your GP to schedule an urgent evaluation of your ears and hearing. Make sure to inform them us you have experienced a sudden drop in your hearing.
What to expect at your appointment?
One of our audiologist will take a medical history, visually check your ear canals and ear drums, and then perform a comprehensive diagnostic hearing examination.
Depending on the cause of your hearing loss the audiologist may:
- Suggest wax removal
- Refer you on to an Ear, Nose & Throat Consultant
- Refer you to your GP
If you are found to have sudden idiopathic hearing loss and you have presented within 14 days, you will be urgently referred to your GP or Ear, Nose & Throat Consultant for a course of steroids.
If you are experiencing a sudden hearing loss call us today 085 265 3136 to be booked in urgently.
Your Questions Answered
What is considered sudden hearing loss?
Sudden hearing loss is a rapid decline in hearing that occurs within a few hours or days. It can affect one or both ears and may be accompanied by tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or dizziness.
What should I do if I experience sudden hearing loss?
Time is critical. You should contact an audiologist and your GP immediately for an urgent evaluation. Early intervention, especially within the first 72 hours, increases the chances of recovery.
Can sudden hearing loss be treated?
Yes, in many cases, steroid treatment can help, particularly if administered within the first 72 hours. If treatment is started within two weeks, there is still a chance of improvement.
How will my hearing be assessed?
An audiologist will take your medical history, visually examine your ear canals and ear drums, and perform a comprehensive hearing test. Depending on the cause, they may recommend wax removal, refer you to a GP or ENT specialist, or suggest urgent treatment.
Could my sudden hearing loss be caused by something minor?
Yes, conditions like earwax impaction or an ear infection can cause sudden hearing loss. However, it is essential to rule out more serious causes, so a full diagnostic evaluation is always recommended.
