Hearing loss can be a frightening experience and in some cases, it can happen in an instant. This is known as sudden hearing loss.
How common is this occurrence? It’s quite uncommon, experts estimate that SSHL strikes between one and six people per 5,000 every year. Still, it happens often enough to be a major cause of concern.
Have you experienced sudden hearing loss? Read on to learn more about the causes of this condition and how it can be fixed.
Table of Contents
It is Due to Infectious Diseases
Sudden hearing loss, also called sudden sensorineural hearing loss, is a type of hearing loss that has an onset of 3 days or less. It often occurs suddenly and without warning. Understanding the hearing loss causes can help raise awareness of this condition and allow for early detection and treatment.
Infectious diseases, such as mumps, measles, and the Coxsackie virus, are a common cause of sudden hearing loss. Other infectious diseases such as meningitis, lymphoma, otitis externa, syphilis, Lyme disease, and HIV may also lead to sudden hearing loss. It is important to talk to a doctor if you experience hearing loss symptoms so that a diagnosis and treatment plan can be established.
It Can Be Caused by Trauma
Sudden hearing loss can be caused by trauma. Trauma, in this context, is any injury to the ear or head that occurs due to an outside force. This damage can range from a loud or explosive sound like an explosion to a more direct physical trauma like being hit in the head or ear.
It can also be the result of an infection or pressure changes in the inner ear. If the eardrum and middle ear bones are damaged, it can also cause sudden hearing loss. Depending on the severity of the trauma, it can cause inner ear nerve damage which can lead to long-term hearing loss or deafness.
It can also result in tinnitus, vertigo, and dizziness. Treatments available vary depending on the severity of the injury, but generally, include hearing aids or surgery.
It Can Be Caused by Autoimmune Diseases
Sudden hearing loss can sometimes be caused by autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system malfunctions or is mistakenly targeting healthy cells. Several autoimmune diseases have been linked to hearing loss.
These include Cogan’s Syndrome, Wegener’s Granulomatosis, Sjogren’s Syndrome, and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Each of these autoimmune diseases can affect different parts of the auditory system. This will in return cause hearing loss.
For instance, Cogan’s Syndrome often affects the inner ear structures. Which can result in sudden and progressive hearing loss. On the other hand, SLE can affect auditory nerve pathways, leading to nerve deafness.
Those suffering from autoimmune diseases need to monitor their hearing long-term and seek specialized treatment. This will allow for the most effective management of hearing loss.
It can be Caused by Blood Circulation Problems
Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency that can be caused by blood circulation problems. Blood circulation problems can lead to blockage of the blood vessels in the ear. This prevents necessary nutrients and oxygen from reaching the inner ear.
Which results in sudden hearing loss. Poor blood flow can also affect the auditory nerve, resulting in damage that causes sudden hearing loss. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of blood circulation problems.
This includes dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and cold hands and feet. Without proper treatment, the damage done to the inner ear can become permanent. If you are experiencing any of the previously mentioned symptoms in addition to sudden hearing loss, you should seek medical attention from your doctor right away.
It Can Be Caused by a Tumor on the Nerve
Sudden hearing loss is a rare and complex medical condition that can cause considerable distress and interference in everyday life. Understanding the potential causes of sudden hearing loss is essential. This is to identify and treat it appropriately.
In some cases, a tumor on the nerve connecting the ear to the brain can be the cause of sudden hearing loss. With the help of an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist), imaging studies can be conducted to diagnose the presence of a tumor. If detected, the tumor can be surgically removed and the hearing restored.
It is important to note that not all sudden hearing loss is tumor-related and other potential causes should also be investigated. Early diagnosis and treatment of sudden hearing loss is key in preventing it from becoming a permanent disability.
It Can Be Caused by Loud Noise Exposure
Sudden hearing loss can be caused by loud noise exposure. Many common activities, such as attending concerts, listening to loud music with headphones, or using power tools, produce sound levels loud enough to potentially cause hearing loss. In most cases, sudden hearing loss occurs without warning and can range from mild to severe.
Those with severe sudden hearing loss find it difficult to understand conversations and can also experience vertigo. Fortunately, if it’s caused by loud noise exposure, it’s often reversible if intervention happens within hours to weeks of the incident.
But prevention is the best strategy, so be mindful of how loud noises are when you’re engaging in certain activities. Limit your time in loud environments and wear earplugs or headsets to protect your hearing.
Quickly Address Sudden Hearing Loss to Avoid Getting It Worst
Overall, sudden hearing loss is a serious condition that must not be overlooked. Knowing the many underlying causes can enable proper diagnosis and treatment on time.
To reduce your risk of sudden hearing loss, maintain good health and take necessary precautions for loud sound exposure. If you believe you may be experiencing sudden hearing loss, it is important to seek treatment from a medical professional right away. You can also get hearing aids to help with your hearing issue.
If you want to read more articles, go to our blog.
