Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) is a distressing condition that affects individuals of all ages, often without warning. Click here to learn more
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) is a distressing condition that affects individuals of all ages, often without warning. At our clinic, we have managed urgent referrals for suspected sudden sensorineural hearing loss patients in children and adults.
What causes sudden sensorineural hearing loss? The exact cause of SSNHL is often unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development including a viral infection, vascular issues (heart attack or stroke), autoimmune diseases, trauma (head injury/skull base fracture, acoustic/noise trauma) or ototoxic medication (certain antibiotics/chemotherapy drugs).
Approximately 5-20 per 100, 000 people are affected every year, although this number appears low, SSNHL is considered to be an audiological medical emergency that requires early identification and prompt medical intervention and management. Research has indicated that the sooner the ear related symptoms are identified and managed, the better the prognosis to restore hearing in the affected ear.
If prompt audiological and medical advice is sought within 5 to 7 days, there is an estimated 56% recovery rate versus a 27% recovery rate when seeking treatment 30 days or later from initial presentation. The diagnosis typically involves a thorough examination by a clinical Audiologist to confirm the asymmetrical hearing loss with immediate referral to A&E or an Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist (ENT), for medical management with MRI or CT scan for deferential diagnosis. Midland Hearing Care’s expertise can expedite a quick onward referral to the appropriate professionals.
After undergoing a comprehensive hearing assessment at our clinic, the next step is a prompt onward referral to ENT for a prescription of corticosteroids in order to reduce inflammation or antiviral mediation if a viral infection is suspected. Treatment should help improve hearing within a few days.
SSHL is sudden and unexpected and may have a negative impact on an individuals’ quality of life, especially if hearing was normal. Hearing loss can act as a barrier affecting communication, social interaction and emotional wellbeing. If the hearing loss persists after undergoing review hearing assessments and despite having completed medical treatment, the hearing loss is considered to be permanent. Hearing aids will be recommended to improve hearing, communication and quality of life.
Early detection and treatment of SSNHL are crucial for a positive prognosis for recovery, reducing the long-term consequences of hearing loss. If you or any of your loved ones experience a sudden hearing loss or any associated ear related symptoms, please contact Midland Hearing Care for our expertise.
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