Summary
What Is Sudden Hearing Loss? Symptoms, Causes & What to Do
What is Sudden hearing loss? It's very much as it suggests, it is a reduction in hearing in one or both ears that occurs over a short period of time. You may notice that sounds are muffled, or that you can only hear clearly from one ear. The affected ear may feel blocked, similar to having an ear plug or cotton wool in place.
Some people also experience a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, known as tinnitus. This may occur in one or both ears. Dizziness can sometimes accompany sudden hearing loss, although this is not always the case.
What should you do if you experience sudden hearing loss?
Sudden hearing loss is considered a medical emergency, as treatment is most effective when started promptly. If you notice a sudden change in your hearing, you should contact your GP for a same-day appointment. If this is not possible, Calling NHS 111 or attending A&E is recommended.
What are the most common causes of sudden hearing loss?
There are several possible causes of sudden hearing loss. One of the most common is a build-up of ear wax. Wax can accumulate in the ear canal and create a blockage, preventing sound from reaching the eardrum.
Similarly, an outer ear infection can lead to the build-up of debris within the ear canal, which may also block sound from travelling into the ear.
Sudden hearing loss can also occur following physical injury. This may include a knock to the head or ear, or exposure to a very loud noise close to the ear. In some cases, this can result in a perforated eardrum or affect other parts of the hearing pathway.
How can we help?
If you experience a sudden change in your hearing, we are here to help and offer clear, practical advice.
We can check your ears to see whether a build-up of ear wax may be contributing to your symptoms and, where appropriate, provide safe wax removal. If wax is not the cause, we can carry out a hearing test to assess your hearing and discuss the findings with you.
If you are concerned about a sudden change in your hearing, or would like advice on the next steps, please feel free to contact us - we are always happy to help.
