Sudden hearing loss
Sudden hearing loss may happen at any age and can have many different causes with various possible forms of treatment.
Page contents
- The signs of sudden hearing loss.
- How to find help for sudden hearing loss.
What is sudden hearing loss
This is rapid loss of hearing, most commonly in just one ear. It can happen immediately or over a few days. There are many possible causes, including medication, illness or trauma. It's important to get it checked by a doctor.
What might be the signs of sudden hearing loss?1
Several clues may indicate sudden hearing loss, here are some examples:
- Waking up in the morning unable to hear.
- Unable to hear on the phone.
- A loud "pop" just before hearing suddenly disappears.
- Dizziness and ringing in the ears.
How to find help for sudden hearing loss
It is important not to ignore these signs by hoping hearing comes back naturally. A doctor can try to determine the cause of hearing loss and rule out any serious illnesses, such as stroke or bacterial infection. They may be able to treat the underlying cause with medication or recommend another suitable solution.
How is sudden hearing loss treated?
About half of people who suffer sudden hearing loss find that some or all their hearing comes back spontaneously, usually one to two weeks.1
When hearing fails to return, health professional can perform tests in order to determine a diagnosis and suggest treatment and therapeutic alternatives as hearing aids or hearing implants.
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Disclaimer
Please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome. Always follow the directions for use. Not all products are available in all countries. Please contact your local Cochlear representative for product information.
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References
- Sudden deafness [Internet]. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders; (2017), [cited Mar 14, 2018]. Available from: https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/sudden-deafness
- Rutherford B, Brewster K, Golub J, Kim A, Roose S. Sensation and Psychiatry: Linking Age-Related Hearing Loss to Late-Life Depression and Cognitive Decline. American Journal of Psychiatry. 2018;175(3):215-224.