Sudden Hearing loss
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a rapid, unexplained loss of hearing—typically in one ear—that develops over a period of hours to up to three days. It occurs when there is damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the nerve pathways that carry sound signals to the brain.
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is considered a medical emergency. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as ear fullness, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), or dizziness, though some people notice only the hearing loss itself.
treatment of sudden hearing loss
The most common first-line treatment is corticosteroids, which may be given orally or injected directly into the middle ear (intratympanic steroids) to reduce inflammation in the inner ear. These are most effective when started as soon as possible, ideally within the first few days of symptom onset.
In some cases, additional treatments may be recommended depending on the suspected cause and patient response. These can include hyperbaric oxygen therapy to improve oxygen delivery to the inner ear, or further diagnostic testing to rule out underlying conditions.
Follow-up hearing tests are typically used to monitor recovery and guide further treatment. While some patients regain partial or full hearing, others may have persistent hearing loss and benefit from hearing rehabilitation options such as hearing aids or assistive listening devices.