What Is Sudden Deafness (Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: SSHL)?
What Is Sudden Deafness (Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: SSHL)?
Sudden hearing loss, commonly known as sudden deafness, is a medical emergency that should not be ignored. Even if it affects only one ear, the rapid loss of hearing can significantly impact quality of life. It is defined as a hearing loss of at least 30 decibels across three consecutive frequencies within 72 hours.
The most critical factor is time. There is a short “golden period” (within the first 72 hours) in which early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve the chances of recovery.
What Is SSHL?
SSHL is a sudden loss of hearing, usually in one ear, caused by damage to the inner ear (sensorineural system). Diagnosis is confirmed through a hearing test (audiogram).
Key Symptoms to Watch For
๐ Sudden hearing loss (often noticed upon waking or during phone use)
๐ Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
๐ Dizziness or vertigo (in some cases)
Causes of Sudden Deafness
In 85-90% of cases, the exact cause is unknown (idiopathic). Possible causes include:
๐ Vascular issues: Reduced blood flow to the inner ear
๐ Viral infections: e.g., herpes virus, influenza
๐ Autoimmune disorders: Immune system attacks inner ear cells
๐ Other causes: Head trauma, inner ear pressure changes, or acoustic neuroma
Risk Factors
๐ Diabetes
๐ Cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, high cholesterol)
๐ Chronic stress and lack of sleep
๐ Recent viral infections
Why Treat Within 72 Hours? (Golden Period)
Delayed treatment can lead to permanent damage to inner ear cells. If untreated for more than 2-4 weeks, the chance of recovery drops significantly. Early treatment within 72 hours offers the best chance for hearing restoration.
Diagnosis and Standard Treatment
Diagnosis
๐ Physical examination
๐ Audiogram to measure hearing loss
Main Treatment
๐ Oral medication
๐ Intratympanic injection (directly into the middle ear)
What Is HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy)?
HBOT is an increasingly recognized adjunct treatment for sudden deafness, especially when combined with steroids.
How It Works
๐ Patients breathe high-pressure oxygen in a controlled environment
๐ Oxygen dissolves into plasma and reaches inner ear tissues more effectively
Benefits
๐ Increases oxygen supply to damaged inner ear cells
๐ Reduces swelling and inflammation
๐ Enhances healing and recovery
When Is HBOT Most Effective?
๐ Best started within 2 weeks of symptom onset
๐ Most effective when combined with standard steroid therapy
Precautions for HBOT
HBOT should be used under medical supervision and may not be suitable for:
๐ Patients with certain lung conditions
๐ Untreated middle ear infections
๐ Severe nasal congestion or colds
Conclusion
Sudden deafness is a time-sensitive medical emergency. If you or someone close experiences sudden hearing loss, seek immediate care from an ENT specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment-especially within 72 hours-offer the best chance of recovery.
Modern treatments, including steroids and HBOT, can significantly improve outcomes when started promptly.
source : ALINE CLINIC
**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team
Independent Writer
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