The sudden inability of a person to hear in one or both ears is referred to as sudden hearing loss. Individuals experiencing sudden hearing loss may also exhibit symptoms such as ear ringing, a feeling of pressure, and balance problems. It is recommended to consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist as soon as possible, as sudden hearing loss has multiple potential causes that may require urgent intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the hearing loss from becoming permanent and help the patient regain their hearing function.
What is Sudden Hearing Loss?
Sudden hearing loss is a condition that describes a rapid or overnight loss of hearing in an individual.
Suddenly occurring hearing loss usually happens within 72 hours, often in just one ear. The person may notice hearing loss within a few hours or upon waking in the morning. Causes may include infections, trauma, vascular occlusion, and structural issues within the inner ear.
When symptoms of sudden hearing loss are observed, it is crucial to seek an expert doctor's consultation immediately. Early initiation of treatment is highly important for the recovery of hearing function.
What are the Degrees of Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is graded with hearing tests (audiometry):
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Mild Hearing Loss (26-40 dB): Whispered and low-volume conversations are difficult to hear. In mild hearing loss, the individual may struggle to hear normal speaking voices.
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Moderate Hearing Loss (41-55 dB): People with moderate degrees of hearing loss may find it even more difficult to perceive spoken words.
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Severe Hearing Loss (56-70 dB): Severe hearing loss can significantly affect daily communication.
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Very Severe Hearing Loss (71-90 dB): Only very loud sounds can be heard.
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Total Hearing Loss (91 dB and above): Hearing is completely lost. In cases of severe hearing loss, supportive tools such as sign language or hearing aids may be necessary.
Sudden hearing loss often occurs at moderate or higher degrees and requires urgent intervention due to its rapid progression.
What are the Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss?
Sudden hearing loss is typically characterized by one ear suddenly losing its ability to hear or experiencing a significant reduction in hearing ability. Other symptoms of sudden hearing loss can include a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear, possibly due to changes in ear pressure.
A commonly observed symptom is ringing in the ears (tinnitus), which can be described as hearing a constant sound. Dizziness (vertigo) and balance issues are also symptoms that may accompany sudden hearing loss.
The symptoms of sudden hearing loss include sensations of pressure and pain. Changes in ear pressure or infections can cause such discomforts and may require urgent intervention.
It is important to consult an ENT specialist when any of these symptoms appear. Early diagnosis and treatment can help identify the underlying cause of sudden hearing loss and prevent permanent damage.
What Causes Sudden Hearing Loss?
The exact cause of sudden hearing loss is often unknown, but various factors can trigger this condition:
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Viral infections: Viral infections that develop after upper respiratory tract infections are a significant factor that can cause sudden hearing loss. Such infections can affect the inner ear's structure and disrupt hearing functions.
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Vascular occlusions and circulation disorders: These can also set the stage for sudden hearing loss. Sudden hearing loss, affecting the auditory nerve, can originate from issues in the inner ear's circulatory system.
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Traumas: Head traumas or exposure to intense noise can also lead to sudden hearing loss. Such situations can damage the inner ear and affect hearing functions temporarily or permanently.
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Autoimmune diseases: These can cause sudden hearing loss as a result of the immune system attacking the inner ear.
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Medication side effects: Ototoxic medications carry a potential risk for causing sudden hearing loss.
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Stress and anxiety: Psychological conditions like anxiety and stress can trigger sudden hearing loss. Such situations may affect blood circulation in the body, preventing adequate oxygen and nutrition from reaching the inner ear.
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Pressure changes: Changes in air pressure during flights or water pressure during diving can impact the inner ear and cause temporary or permanent hearing problems.
Left Ear and Single Ear Hearing Loss Situations
The majority of sudden hearing loss cases occur in one ear. In about 90% of patients, only one ear is affected by this condition. Hearing loss in one ear can severely reduce overall hearing quality and make various aspects of daily life more challenging.
Characteristics of Left Ear Hearing Loss
Left ear hearing loss often develops through similar physiological mechanisms. However, it is known that the brain's auditory processing centers may evaluate signals from the left and right ears differently in some cases.
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Direction determination and spatial sound perception may be more affected in individuals with left ear hearing loss because the right hemisphere of the brain is somewhat more active in processing spatial sound.
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Loss in the left ear can cause more pronounced difficulties in daily situations such as talking on the phone, listening in group settings, and distinguishing conversations in crowded areas.
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Some studies have indicated that individuals with left ear hearing loss may also experience difficulties with music perception and rhythm tracking.
The Social and Psychological Effects of Single Ear Hearing Loss
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Communication Difficulties: It can be challenging to distinguish conversations in noisy environments.
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Balance Problems: Dizziness and imbalance can occur due to the effect on structures within the inner ear responsible for maintaining balance.
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Direction Determination Issues: Understanding which direction a sound comes from can become more difficult. This situation can pose risks, especially in traffic, crowds, or emergency situations.
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Psychological Effects: Isolation, social withdrawal, loss of self-confidence, and the development of anxiety may occur.
Disability Ratio for Single Ear Hearing Loss
For individuals with single ear hearing loss, the disability ratio is calculated considering the degree of hearing loss, its impact on daily life activities, and occupational limitations. While bilateral hearing loss generally results in a higher disability ratio, the proportion may be calculated lower for single ear loss. Certain professions may experience significant limitations even with single ear loss.
How is Sudden Hearing Loss Diagnosed?
To diagnose sudden hearing loss, ENT specialists use the following methods:
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Audiometric Hearing Test: Determining the degree and type of the hearing loss
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Auditory brainstem response tests (ABR)
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Blood tests: Investigating underlying systemic diseases
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Imaging (MRI, CT): Examination of nerve and vascular structures
How is Hearing Loss Treated?
Treatment is determined based on the cause and severity of the loss:
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Corticosteroid Therapy: This is the most common treatment option. The medication is administered orally or injected directly into the middle ear.
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Antiviral and Antibacterial Medications: Used in cases of suspected infections.
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Vasodilators and Anticoagulant Medications: To increase blood circulation
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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Enhances oxygenation of the inner ear.
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Hearing Aids or Cochlear Implants: May be used if permanent loss develops.
Can Sudden Hearing Loss be Prevented?
Certain measures can be taken to reduce risks, but it may not always be possible to completely eliminate them. Therefore, the following steps are important:
- Protecting against loud noises can prevent hearing loss and other ear problems. Appropriate ear protection should be used at concerts or in industrial areas.
- Controlling chronic diseases can reduce risks on the circulatory system. Regular check-ups and medication are vital.
- Paying attention to hygiene rules to prevent infections, frequently washing hands, and keeping vaccinations up to date are important.
- The use of ototoxic medications requires doctor supervision. As medications can lead to hearing loss, they should be used under medical guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sudden hearing loss recover on its own?
In some mild cases, hearing may partially improve; however, sudden hearing loss rarely heals completely on its own. Without early and appropriate treatment, the risk of permanent hearing loss significantly increases.
How is the disability ratio for hearing loss calculated?
The disability ratio for hearing loss is calculated by evaluating audiological tests, the degree of loss, and whether it affects both ears or just one. In individuals with single ear hearing loss, the disability ratio is typically calculated lower; however, it can severely affect quality of life and the ability to perform certain occupations.
How soon should treatment begin for sudden hearing loss?
Ideally, treatment should begin within the first 24 hours to maximize the chance of recovering hearing. If more than 72 hours pass, the success rate of treatment drops significantly, and the risk of permanent loss increases.
What methods are used in the treatment of hearing loss?
The most commonly chosen treatment is cortisone (steroid) therapy, typically administered orally or directly inside the ear. In some cases, antiviral medications, vasodilators, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and if necessary, hearing aids or cochlear implants are among the treatment options.