When Hearing Fades in an Instant: Understanding Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sudden hearing loss, also known as Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL), is a medical emergency that requires prompt attention. It is characterized by a rapid loss of hearing, often in one ear, over a period of minutes or hours This condition can be frightening and disrupt daily life, making it essential to seek immediate medical help.
What Causes Sudden Hearing Loss?
Despite its sudden onset, the exact causes of SSNHL are not always clear in the majority of cases. That’s the reason its termed “idiopathic”However, research suggests that it may be related to:
- Viral infections:
Viruses such as measles, mumps, and rubella can cause inflammation in the inner ear called “cochleitis’, leading to hearing loss. Sometimes it may be a manifestation of a widespread viral infection. - Blood flow problems:
Reduced blood flow to the inner ear can cause damage to the hair cells, leading to hearing loss. - Head trauma:
A head injury can cause damage to the inner ear or the nerves that connect the inner ear to the brain. - Ototoxicity:
Exposure to certain chemicals or medications, such as antibiotics or chemotherapy, can damage the hair cells in the inner ear. - Autoimmune disorders:
Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can cause the immune system to attack the inner ear, leading to hearing loss. - Loud noise exposure:
Sudden burst of loud noise can also lead to sudden hearing loss.
Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss
The symptoms of SSNHL can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
- Sudden hearing loss: A rapid loss of hearing in one ear, often over a period of minutes, hours or rarely days.
- Tinnitus: Ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the affected ear.
- Ear fullness: A feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear.
- Dizziness or vertigo: Feeling off-balance or dizzy.
What to Do If You Experience Sudden Hearing Loss?
If you or someone you know experiences sudden hearing loss, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Here are some steps to take:
- Seek emergency ENT help: Go to your nearest ENT specialist as soon as possible. An ENT specialist can diagnose and treat SSNHL. There is a 72 hour golden period where if correct treatment is initiated, full hearing can be restored.
- Get a hearing test: A hearing test can help determine the extent of the hearing loss.
- Start treatment: Treatment may include steroids, vasodilators, or other medications to help restore hearing.
Treatment Options for Sudden Hearing Loss
Treatment for SSNHL usually involves a combination of medications and therapies. Here are some common treatment options:
- Steroids: Steroids can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the inner ear. It may be given either orally or as an injection in the ears or both as concomitant therapy
- Vasodilators: Selective vasodilation of the vessels supplying the inner ears can lead to early recovery of hearing
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: This therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber to help restore hearing
- Hearing aids/ Cochlear implants: In cases where in spite of complete treatment, there is no hearing improvement, hearing aids may be the last option. In some cases, cochlear implants may be recommended to help restore hearing; specifically in long term hearing loss
Conclusion
Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency that requires prompt attention. If you or someone you know experiences sudden hearing loss, seek medical help immediately. With prompt treatment, it is possible to restore hearing and prevent long-term damage. Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to treating SSNHL.