What is Sudden Hearing Loss?

Sudden hearing loss, also called sudden sensorineural hearing loss or SSNHL, is a rapid loss of hearing that happens over the course of hours to days. It usually affects one ear. Many people notice it when they wake up in the morning or suddenly feel like their ear is blocked. Unlike earwax or fluid, this type of hearing loss comes from a problem in the inner ear or hearing nerve. Sudden hearing loss is considered a medical emergency and should be evaluated as soon as possible.

Symptoms

• Sudden drop in hearing in one or both ears

• Muffled or distorted sound

• A feeling of fullness in the ear

• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)

• Dizziness or imbalance (sometimes)

Treatment

Treatment should begin as soon as possible, ideally within the first few days. Common treatments include:

• Steroids (either pills or injections into the ear) to reduce inflammation

• Imaging such as an MRI to rule out causes in the brain, such as an acoustic neuroma

Early treatment improves the chance of recovery. If you notice sudden hearing changes, seek medical care right away.