Sudden deafness

Sudden Deafness or Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL) is a rapid loss of hearing that can happen all at once or over a period of up to three days. It is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Causes

The exact cause of sudden deafness is often unknown, but it can be caused by a variety of conditions. These include viral infections, autoimmune diseases, exposure to certain drugs, blood circulation problems, a neurological disorder, disorders of the inner ear, and trauma to the ear or head.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of sudden deafness is a rapid loss of hearing, typically in one ear. This can occur all at once or over a period of a few days. Other symptoms may include tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ear, and dizziness or vertigo.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of sudden deafness is typically made based on the patient's history and a physical examination. Audiometry is often used to measure the extent of hearing loss. Additional tests, such as MRI or CT scan, may be used to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for sudden deafness depends on the underlying cause. If a specific cause is identified, treatment will be directed at that. In many cases, no specific cause can be found, and treatment is aimed at reducing inflammation in the ear. This may include corticosteroids, either taken orally or injected directly into the ear.

Prognosis

The prognosis for sudden deafness varies widely. Some people recover completely without treatment, while others may have permanent hearing loss. Early treatment can improve the chances of recovery.

See also

• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus
• Vertigo