Hearing loss isn’t just something that happens slowly as you age. Sometimes, it can happen unexpectedly, resulting in a noticeable drop in sound or complete silence in one ear.

Losing your hearing suddenly can be confusing. Knowing what can cause this can help you stay calm and understand what to do next.

What is Sudden Hearing Loss?

Sudden hearing loss is a rapid, unexplained drop in hearing ability. It usually affects just one ear, though it can affect both. Experiencing sudden sensorineural hearing loss is considered a medical emergency. Early diagnosis and treatment are your best chance at regaining your hearing before any permanent damage sets in.

Common Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss

Pay attention to whether you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Muffled or distorted hearing
• Feeling like your ears need to pop
• A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Sudden deafness has the same symptoms as other types of hearing loss. Depending on the cause, it usually affects people within 72 hours. Noticing when the symptoms start can help with diagnosis.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Don’t wait to see if your hearing returns on its own. A healthcare provider or audiologist should immediately evaluate any sudden hearing loss in one ear or both. The sooner you have a hearing evaluation, the greater the chances of restoring your hearing.

10 Causes of Sudden Hearing Loss

There are several reasons for sudden hearing loss, though it can be hard to pinpoint. Common causes include:

• Viral infections
• Earwax buildup
• Ear infections
• Inner ear issues
• Head trauma
• Poor circulation
• Benign tumors
• Allergic reaction
• Stress
• Autoimmune diseases

What to Do if You Experience Sudden Deafness

If you notice a change in your hearing, try not to panic. Take a moment to assess what you're experiencing. Is it in both ears or only one? Did the shift occur suddenly, or gradually over a day or two?

Seeing a hearing care expert within the first 48 to 72 hours is important. Getting treated early can make a big difference. Most importantly, resist the urge to self-diagnose or assume it’ll clear up on its own.

Sudden hearing loss is serious and requires immediate attention. Scheduling a hearing evaluation can help diagnose the cause and determine an appropriate treatment plan.

Get a Hearing Evaluation at Beltone South

Experiencing any kind of hearing loss can be scary, but when it comes on quickly, you might not know what actions to take.

At Beltone South, we’re here to help you every step of the way. You will get the help you need to protect and improve your hearing health. Visit any of our Tennessee hearing aid centers today!