What You Need To Know About Sudden Hearing Loss
Imagine waking up one day to find that the world sounds different in one ear. It’s as if someone turned down the volume or muffled the sounds you once knew.
This sudden change is known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), and it’s a situation that demands quick attention and understanding.
SSNHL: A Sudden Change in Hearing
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is like a surprise guest that shows up without an invitation. It happens in just a few hours or up to three days, leaving you with a significant drop in your ability to hear in one (or both) ear/s.
The most important thing is to recognise it and take action as soon as possible.
Why Timing Matters: Seeking Help Right Away
Think of SSNHL as an emergency for your ears. The sooner you get help, the better your chances of getting back your lost hearing.
If you’re experiencing sudden hearing loss, immediately seek medical advice from your doctor or hospital to determine if there are any underlying causes to your SSNHL.
Making Sense of Treatment: High Doses of Steroids and More
Doctors often use strong medicines called steroids to treat SSNHL. These steroids help reduce inflammation and might bring back your hearing. But here’s the trick: the faster you start treatment, the better your chances of improvement.
And remember, taking it easy on your ears by avoiding loud noises is a good idea too.
The Road to Recovery: What to Expect
Every journey is unique, and the path to regaining your hearing can vary. Some people fully recover, while others regain only part of their hearing.
And for some, the hearing loss remains. But it’s okay, there are ways to adapt and improve your situation including the possibility of hearing aids and hearing-assistive technology.
Understanding the Odds: How Many Are Affected
SSNHL doesn’t discriminate – it can happen to anyone, at any age. The chances are the same for both men and women.
Most people affected by SSNHL are in their 50s to 60s. Although it might sound rare, there are actually quite a few cases each year, even if not all of them are reported.
What You Can Do: Seeking Help and Support
If you or someone you know experiences sudden hearing loss, remember that it’s important to act quickly.
If your hearing loss persists, contact us, our audiologists are here to guide you through this. Together, we’ll explore treatment options and create a plan that’s right for you.
