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September 17, 2018
Sudden Hearing Loss
Its Causes & Solutions at
CC Saha Hearing Clinics
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Imagine waking up one morning and realizing you can’t hear out of one ear. No warning signs, no pain—just a sudden, disorienting silence. For many people, sudden hearing loss feels like that—a quick, unexpected change that throws off balance, quite literally.
If you’ve experienced this, or know someone who has, it’s essential to seek immediate care. You might think it’s just a temporary glitch, a side effect of allergies, or even a wax buildup. But in reality, it could be something much more serious—a condition known as Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL).
It is important to know about SSHL, the causes of sudden hearing loss, and how CC Saha Hearing Clinics have been providing effective solutions for decades.
Table of Contents
What Is Sudden Hearing Loss?
Sudden hearing loss, technically known as Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL), refers to the rapid onset of hearing impairment, typically in one ear. It can happen within a few hours or over a span of 72 hours, and it’s more common than you might think.
While it can occur at any age, those between 45 to 60 years working in loud or noisy environments are most vulnerable. Many people dismiss sudden hearing loss, assuming it’s due to earwax buildup or allergies. However, SSHL is a medical emergency, and immediate care can significantly improve outcomes.
Common Causes of Sudden Hearing Loss
There isn’t always a clear cause for SSHL, but several underlying issues have been linked to this condition:
- Viral Infections: Viruses such as measles, mumps, or even some strains of the flu can affect the inner ear and lead to hearing loss.
- Circulatory Problems: Issues with blood flow to the ear can cut off the oxygen supply, damaging sensitive hearing mechanisms.
- Trauma: Physical injury to the ear or head can result in sudden hearing impairment.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body can also target the ear.
- Ototoxic Medications: Certain medications, including some antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can cause sudden hearing loss as a side effect.
In some cases, though, the exact cause remains unknown, so getting a quick diagnosis is crucial.
Dos and Don’ts for Sudden Hearing Loss
According to an article from The Times of India, Kolkata’s average decibel count is 65-80 decibels. Yet there are claims that it crossing over 109db during peak traffic hours, making Kolkata one of the noisiest cities in India. These decibel levels are way above the 75 decibels in the day for commercial areas and 40 decibels at night for residential areas.
Workplaces, particularly in industrial zones like Howrah and Kidderpore, also contributed significantly. Construction sites and factories often operate heavy machinery without adequate soundproofing, putting workers at risk of gradual hearing loss.
The festival seasons, especially Durga Puja, add another layer of noise pollution. Loudspeakers and firecrackers push sound levels well over 100 dB, enough to cause permanent hearing damage if exposed for too long.
Protecting Yourself against Noise Pollution
Dos
- Seek medical attention immediately if you experience sudden hearing loss, especially within the first 24 to 72 hours. Early treatment increases the likelihood of hearing recovery.
- Keep calm and avoid panicking. While the experience may be disorienting, timely intervention can lead to significant recovery in many cases.
- Protect your ears from further damage by avoiding loud environments or using ear protection if necessary.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan precisely, whether it involves medications like corticosteroids or recommendations for hearing aids or other treatments.
- Consult an audiologist for a hearing test to assess the extent of hearing loss. At CC Saha Clinics, comprehensive hearing evaluations are conducted using state-of-the-art equipment.
- Monitor your symptoms If you experience additional issues like dizziness, tinnitus, or balance problems, let your healthcare provider know.
- Use hearing aids if prescribed to help improve your hearing experience, especially if the loss becomes permanent. CC Saha Hearing Clinics offer modern hearing aids that can be customized to your needs.
- Consider rehabilitation therapy if needed. Hearing loss can affect your ability to communicate and navigate daily life, and rehabilitation can help you adjust.
- Protect your other ear if your hearing loss affects only one ear. This includes reducing exposure to loud sounds and avoiding ototoxic medications (after discussing with your doctor).
- Stay positive and seek support from family, friends, or professional counselling to help cope with the emotional impact of sudden hearing loss.
Don'ts
- Don’t ignore sudden hearing loss or assume it will go away on its own. Waiting too long can lead to permanent damage.
- Don’t use earphones or earbuds in the affected ear until you’ve been assessed by a healthcare provider. This can worsen the condition.
- Don’t delay treatment. The longer you wait, the lower the chances of restoring full hearing.
- Don’t self-diagnose or self-medicate. Always consult a medical professional rather than assuming the cause of the hearing loss is simple, like earwax or a cold.
- Don’t expose yourself to loud noises, such as concerts, construction, or loud machinery, especially while your ear is still recovering.
- Don’t skip follow-up appointments with your doctor or audiologist. Regular checkups ensure that the treatment is working and allows for adjustments if necessary.
- Don’t stop taking prescribed medications like corticosteroids prematurely. Follow the full course as instructed by your doctor to improve your chances of recovery.
- Don’t rely solely on home remedies or over-the-counter solutions. While they might seem convenient, they can delay proper treatment.
- Don’t be discouraged if hearing aids or other devices are recommended. They are advanced tools that can greatly enhance your quality of life and hearing capabilities.
- Don’t isolate yourself due to hearing loss. Engage with your support system and communicate your needs. Many people with hearing loss lead full, active lives with the right support.
Solutions for Sudden Hearing Loss at CC Saha Hearing Clinics
The good news is that CC Saha Hearing Clinics, with their state-of-the-art facilities and expert team of audiologists, offers several solutions to tackle SSHL, along with your ENT specialist. Here’s a step-by-step look at what you can expect:
- Immediate Diagnostic Tests: The first step is a thorough evaluation, including audiometry tests to assess the severity of the hearing loss. The clinic is equipped with cutting-edge tools, ensuring you get a clear diagnosis quickly.
- Medications: In cases where SSHL is linked to infections or autoimmune disorders, your doctor may prescribe steroids and other medications to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage.
- Hearing Aids: If the hearing loss persists, advanced hearing aids for top brands like Phonak, Signia, Starkey, and ReSound are available at CC Saha Hearing Clinics. These modern hearing aids don’t just amplify sound—they are designed to offer clarity, reduce background noise, and connect with your smartphone for a seamless experience.
- Counselling and Rehabilitation: Adjusting to hearing loss can be mentally challenging. At CC Saha Hearing Clinics, counselling and rehabilitation services are provided to help patients and their families cope.
CC Saha Hearing Clinics are the trusted choice in Kolkata as one-stop for all hearing issues
- 90+ Years of Expertise: With almost a century of experience, CC Saha Hearing Clinics have treated thousands of patients, offering personalized care for hearing loss, tinnitus, and more.
- State-of-the-Art Hearing Aids: They provide hearing aids from the world’s top brands—Phonak, Signia, ReSound—fitted to each individual’s specific hearing needs.
- Holistic Hearing Care: CC Saha Hearing Clinics don’t just treat sudden hearing loss. They offer a wide range of services, from pediatric hearing assessments to specialized care for age-related hearing issues.
- Emergency Hearing Care: Sudden hearing loss is an emergency, and the clinic will prioritize quick appointments and solutions. The faster you get treated, the better your chances of recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Sudden Hearing Loss
What is sudden hearing loss?
Sudden hearing loss is the rapid, unexplained loss of hearing, typically in one ear, either over a few hours or within 72 hours. It is considered a medical emergency.
What causes sudden hearing loss?
Causes vary and may include viral infections, circulatory issues, head trauma, autoimmune diseases, or ototoxic medications. In many cases, the cause remains unknown.
How do I know if I am experiencing sudden hearing loss?
If you notice a sudden reduction in hearing ability in one ear, especially over a short period, along with a sensation of fullness in the ear, dizziness, or tinnitus (ringing in the ears), you may be experiencing sudden hearing loss.
Is sudden hearing loss permanent?
It can be temporary or permanent depending on how quickly it is treated. Early diagnosis and treatment, particularly within the first two weeks, increase the chances of recovering some or all of the lost hearing.
What treatments are available for sudden hearing loss?
Treatment options include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, antiviral medications, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and in cases of permanent loss, hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Should I see a doctor immediately if I experience sudden hearing loss?
Yes! Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency, and you should seek treatment from an ear specialist (ENT) or audiologist as soon as possible. Early treatment can improve recovery chances.
Can stress cause sudden hearing loss?
While stress isn’t a direct cause, it can worsen underlying conditions that might trigger sudden hearing loss, such as circulatory issues or viral infections.
Can sudden hearing loss affect both ears?
It typically affects one ear, but in rare cases, it can affect both. Bilateral sudden hearing loss requires urgent attention as it may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Can hearing aids help with sudden hearing loss?
If the hearing loss becomes permanent, hearing aids such as those from Phonak, Signia, or ReSound, which are available at CC Saha Clinics, can help improve sound quality and overall hearing.
What should I do if I experience sudden hearing loss?
Don’t wait for it to improve on its own. Contact an audiologist or ear specialist right away. In Kolkata, CC Saha Hearing Clinics offer emergency services for patients experiencing sudden hearing loss.
FAQs on Sudden Hearing Loss
What is sudden hearing loss?
Sudden hearing loss is the rapid, unexplained loss of hearing, typically in one ear, either over a few hours or within 72 hours. It is considered a medical emergency.
What causes sudden hearing loss?
Causes vary and may include viral infections, circulatory issues, head trauma, autoimmune diseases, or ototoxic medications. In many cases, the cause remains unknown.
How do I know if I am experiencing sudden hearing loss?
If you notice a sudden reduction in hearing ability in one ear, especially over a short period, along with a sensation of fullness in the ear, dizziness, or tinnitus (ringing in the ears), you may be experiencing sudden hearing loss.
Is sudden hearing loss permanent?
It can be temporary or permanent depending on how quickly it is treated. Early diagnosis and treatment, particularly within the first two weeks, increase the chances of recovering some or all of the lost hearing.
What treatments are available for sudden hearing loss?
Treatment options include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, antiviral medications, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and in cases of permanent loss, hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Should I see a doctor immediately if I experience sudden hearing loss?
Yes! Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency, and you should seek treatment from an ear specialist (ENT) or audiologist as soon as possible. Early treatment can improve recovery chances.
Can stress cause sudden hearing loss?
While stress isn’t a direct cause, it can worsen underlying conditions that might trigger sudden hearing loss, such as circulatory issues or viral infections.
Can sudden hearing loss affect both ears?
It typically affects one ear, but in rare cases, it can affect both. Bilateral sudden hearing loss requires urgent attention as it may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Can hearing aids help with sudden hearing loss?
If the hearing loss becomes permanent, hearing aids such as those from Phonak, Signia, or ReSound, which are available at CC Saha Clinics, can help improve sound quality and overall hearing.
What should I do if I experience sudden hearing loss?
Don’t wait for it to improve on its own. Contact an audiologist or ear specialist right away. In Kolkata, CC Saha Hearing Clinics offer emergency services for patients experiencing sudden hearing loss.
At C.C. Saha Ltd., we provide a comprehensive range of hearing solutions that include the testing of a patient’s ability to detect tones at different frequencies. Our highly skilled Audiologists conduct a thorough examination, taking into account the patient’s hearing loss history, lifestyle choices, and needs, and then recommend the best possible hearing solution.
We are present across the city of Kolkata, at Esplanade, Prince Anwar Shah Road, Dunlop, Salt Lake, and Barasat. We also have clinics at Midnapore and Burdwan.
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