Sudden hearing loss can be alarming, especially when it happens without warning. Unlike gradual hearing loss that develops over time, a sudden change in hearing in one ear, whether it occurs instantly or over a few days, may be a sign of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL).
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss affects the inner ear or auditory nerve and is considered a medical emergency. In many cases, the exact underlying cause is unknown, often referred to as idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. However, possible risk factors may include viral infections, autoimmune disease, head trauma, or changes in blood flow to the inner ear.
Because early treatment is time-sensitive, it is important not to ignore symptoms or assume it is something minor like ear wax.
Why Sudden Hearing Loss Is a Medical Emergency
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss typically occurs within a short period of time, often within 72 hours. It is different from conductive hearing loss, which may be caused by ear wax or middle ear effusion and is often temporary.
With SSNHL, the issue involves the inner ear or auditory nerve rather than the ear canal or middle ear. Without timely medical care, there is a risk of permanent hearing loss in the affected ear.
Diagnosis and access to treatment soon after the onset of hearing loss are important and may improve the chances of hearing recovery. Many clinical guidelines emphasize early treatment, ideally within 48 hours when possible.
Common Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss
A sudden sensorineural hearing loss will often affect only one ear. Some people notice the change immediately, while others become aware of it over a few days.
Common symptoms include:
- A sudden drop in hearing in one ear
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Tinnitus, such as ringing, buzzing, or roaring sounds
- Dizziness or balance concerns
These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for less serious conditions, such as earwax or middle ear issues. A proper hearing test is important to determine the type and severity of hearing loss.
What Causes Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
In many cases, sudden sensorineural hearing loss is considered idiopathic, meaning no clear underlying cause is identified. However, several potential factors have been associated with SSNHL, including:
- Viral infections affecting the inner ear
- Autoimmune disease
- Head trauma or neck injury
- Circulatory issues affecting the auditory nerve
- Exposure to loud noise
In some cases, further medical evaluation may include imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or additional testing to rule out underlying conditions.
How Sudden Hearing Loss Is Diagnosed
If you experience a sudden change in hearing, a prompt hearing test is recommended. An audiologist can assess the degree and type of hearing loss and help determine whether it is sensorineural, conductive, or mixed hearing loss.
As part of the assessment, the ear canal will be checked for earwax or signs of infection. Additional tests may be recommended depending on the findings.
Early and accurate diagnosis helps guide appropriate medical treatment and next steps.
Treatment Options for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Treatment for sudden sensorineural hearing loss often involves steroid therapy, which may be prescribed as oral steroids or administered through intratympanic steroid injections.
Steroid treatments are commonly used as an initial treatment to reduce inflammation and support hearing recovery. In some cases, additional options such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be considered.
The most appropriate treatment approach depends on the individual case and should be determined by a medical professional.
How Quickly Should You Seek Treatment?
If you notice a sudden loss of hearing, it is important to seek care as soon as possible. Many clinics will try to arrange a same-day or next-day assessment when sudden hearing loss is suspected.
Early treatment is associated with better outcomes, while delayed treatment may reduce the likelihood of recovery. Even if symptoms seem mild or temporary, it is important not to wait.
When Should You See an Audiologist?
If you experience a sudden change in hearing, tinnitus, or a feeling of fullness in one ear, an audiologist can perform a comprehensive hearing assessment and help guide the next steps.
At Toronto Family Hearing, we prioritize urgent hearing concerns and aim to provide timely hearing tests to assess sudden hearing loss and support appropriate referrals when needed.
Protecting Your Long-Term Hearing Health
We recommend everyone get a baseline hearing assessment and routine hearing checks to better understand and monitor their hearing health over time.
It is important not to ignore sudden changes in hearing. Even if it seems minor, early assessment can help identify potential issues and support better long-term outcomes.