Reviewed by Dr Manuj Agarwal · Last updated 1 September 2026
What is sudden hearing loss?
Sudden hearing loss is the unexpected and abrupt loss of hearing. It can affect both ears or, more commonly, just one. It often happens over hours or days, and some people first notice it on waking.
What causes sudden hearing loss?
The exact mechanism is often unclear. A viral attack on the inner ear is commonly identified as a potential cause. Because other causes need to be ruled out, a medical assessment is essential.
What are the symptoms?
- Abrupt hearing loss without an obvious trigger
- Usually affecting one ear
- Dizziness or a sense of imbalance
- Numbness around the outer ear
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing)
How is it diagnosed and treated?
Your doctor may prescribe oral steroids, which work by suppressing inflammatory and immune responses. In some cases, steroids are delivered by intratympanic injection directly into the ear. Treatment started early gives the best prospects of recovery.
An audiologist can measure exactly how much hearing has been affected with a hearing test, and report findings to your doctor.
When should I see an audiologist or doctor?
See a doctor immediately for any sudden change in hearing. Once medical care is under way, follow up with an audiologist to track recovery, and to discuss a hearing aid assessment if some hearing loss remains. Ongoing tinnitus can be supported through tinnitus treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is sudden hearing loss an emergency?
Yes, it should be treated as a medical urgency. Sudden hearing loss needs immediate medical attention, ideally on the same day. Contact your GP or an emergency department rather than waiting to see whether it settles, because early treatment improves the chance of recovery.
Can hearing come back after sudden hearing loss?
Recovery is possible, and prompt treatment gives the best prospects. Outcomes vary between people, so it is important to be assessed quickly. An audiologist can then measure your hearing to monitor any change over time.
What causes sudden hearing loss?
A viral attack on the inner ear is often suspected, though the underlying mechanism is frequently unclear. Because different causes need different treatment, a doctor should assess you promptly to rule out other explanations.
How is sudden hearing loss treated?
Doctors commonly prescribe oral steroids to reduce inflammation and immune activity. Sometimes steroids are injected through the eardrum into the middle ear (intratympanic injection). Your doctor will advise what suits your situation.
Should I see an audiologist or a doctor first?
See a doctor first. Sudden hearing loss is a medical issue where timing matters. An audiologist can then test your hearing and share results with your doctor. Call 03 7042 9301 if you are unsure and we will guide you.
Related information
Hearing test
A full diagnostic hearing assessment with results and a clear plan in the same visit.
Learn more →Hearing aid assessment
Independent advice on hearing aids matched to your hearing loss, lifestyle and budget.
Learn more →Tinnitus treatment
Assessment and management for ringing, buzzing or hissing that affects focus, sleep or mood.
Learn more →Sensorineural asymmetry
When one ear hears noticeably worse than the other and why it should be investigated.
Learn more →Vertigo
A spinning or off-balance sensation, common inner ear causes, and how it is assessed.
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