A Brief Overview On Sudden Hearing Loss!

A loss of greater than 30dB of hearing is called sudden hearing loss. This happens usually over three contiguous frequencies. This kind of sudden hearing loss usually happens in one ear only, but in rare cases, it can happen in both the ears. Loss of hearing will happen all of a sudden for some and for some people, it will happen over a course of three days or 72 hours. Some people experience this when they wake up in the morning and for some, it will happen without any warning.

Symptoms of sudden hearing loss
The symptoms of sudden hearing loss can vary from person to person and its severity also varies. In some cases, this sudden hearing loss can result in permanent deafness as well. Following are some of the symptoms for a sudden hearing loss:

• Hearing loss without earache
• Hearing loss in only one ear
• Dizziness
• Ear pressure
• No sensation in the outer ear
• Tinnitus

Causes of sudden hearing loss:
There can be many causes for sudden hearing loss, some of which are mentioned below:

• Meniere’s disease, which affects the inner ear
• Cogan syndrome, which is an immune system problem
• Loud music or voices
• Trauma or head injury
• Inner ear malfunctioning
• Snake venom
• Problems with proper blood circulation
• Tumors
• Diseases related to blood vessels
• Aging
• Neurological conditions
• Stress
• Viral infections in the ears
• Injuries to cervical spine
• Drugs
• Insecticides
• Disruption in blood flow to the ear

Treatment for sudden hearing loss

• One major problem with this sudden hearing loss problem is that its cause is not definite. Visit an ENT specialist to get a timely treatment. When you are going for an early treatment, the chances of getting back to normal and recovery are high.
• One of the most common kinds of treatments for a sudden hearing loss is steroids. Swelling and inflammation can be reduced with the help of steroids. People who are suffering from diseases related to immune system like Cogan syndrome will find this treatment very useful. Antibiotics are prescribed to patients who have infections in the ear.
• Hearing aids may also be used for treating a sudden hearing loss. There are chances that a sudden hearing loss can end up as a permanent hearing loss and for those people, hearing aids are suggested.
• There are other treatments like oxygen pressure chamber as well as local anesthesia for blocking inhibited nerves. Whatever be the type of treatment, make sure it is done under the strict supervision of experts.