Sudden Hearing Loss, is the unexpected and abrupt loss of hearing that can affect both ears or just one. This situation is a medical emergency and needs to be treated as such. Those who experience sudden Hearing Loss should see a doctor right away and have a hearing assessment to establish the underlying cause of hearing loss. 

The cause of sudden sensorineural hearing loss is not well established however it can often be as a result of a viral attack on the inner ear.

The most common symptoms of sudden hearing loss often include:

• Occurrence of hearing loss without a recognizable cause
• Hearing loss is generally in one ear

Accompanying symptoms include:

• Dizziness
• Loss of sensation in the outer ear
• Ear pressure
• Tinnitus

Oral steroids are often prescribed by the GP for treating acute hearing loss. This medication inhibits the body’s inflammatory and immunological responses, making it useful for treating a variety of conditions. Steroids may be injected straight into the ear canal in some situations. Injections made into the ear canal are known as intratympanic injections.

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss can often be reversed successfully if assessed and treatment commenced immediately.