Sudden hearing loss (SHL) - a sudden rapid deterioration of hearing - usually develops instantaneously and is often discovered just after waking up in the morning, or after a large popping sound in the ear. In either case, sudden hearing loss - also known as sudden deafness, needs to be treated early on with quick action in order to assume the best possible outcome for your hearing.

Symptoms of sudden hearing loss

Sudden hearing loss is characterized by a sudden and rapid loss of hearing. Commonly SHL is defined as a loss of hearing where:

• the loss of hearing happens over a period no greater that 3 days (often instantaneous)

• the loss of hearing is greater than 30dB over 3 contiguous pure-tone frequencies

To evaluate the severity of your hearing loss you will need to take a hearing test. Call 641-683-3277 to schedule an appointment with the Moore Hearing Clinic now!

In most cases, an affected person experiences sudden hearing loss in one year. Bilateral sudden haring loss (i.e. SHL in both ears) is relatively rare. Sudden deafness also coincides with ear pressure, dizziness, balance inssues or a ringing sound in the ears - a sensations commonly known as tinnitus.

Sudden hearing loss causes

SHL is often idiopathic, meaning the causes is unknown, but there are several potential reasons, including

• Infections

• Injuries/Issues with blood circulation

• Autoimmune diseases

• Oxotoxic drugs (i.e. medication that is toxic to the ear)

• Diseases (e.g. Ménières disease)

• Immune disease disorders

• Diabetes or other metabolic disorders

• Stress

Sudden hearing loss treatment

The most common treatment of SHL is the prescription of steroids. Recovery chances are very good if the treatment starts within a matter of days (ideally the first 24 hours) after the onset of hearing loss.

If there is an underlying reason for hearing loss, additional treatment may be needed.