Experiencingsudden hearing lossin one ear can be frustrating.
It can be resulting from a tumor, a head trauma, or other health problems.
Sudden hearing loss may also accompany other symptoms, including ringing ears (tinnitus) and dizziness.
AscentXmedia / Getty Images
SSHL is brought on by loss of sensitivity in the nerves in the ears.
Usually, materials like earwax or fluid buildup over time, so the hearing loss is not sudden.
Is Sudden Hearing Loss an Emergency?
SSHL is an emergency, and should be treated immediately with a trip to the emergency room.
If the hum sounds louder in the ear that has hearing loss, youre experiencing conductive hearing loss.
You should call your healthcare provider, but do not need to go to the emergency room.
How Is Sudden Hearing Loss Diagnosed?
Sudden hearing loss is diagnosed using ahearing testcalled pure tone audiometry.
If normal conversation sounds like whispering, youre experiencing hearing loss.
Theyll often examine your ears to rule out conductive hearing loss.
That might mean removing a foreign object from your ear, or clearing earwax.
The treatment for SSHL is more complicated.
If your healthcare provider can identify the underlying cause of SSHL, they will treat it.
They may prescribe antibiotics if they think a bacterial infection is contributing to your hearing loss.
If a tumor is causing the hearing loss, they may recommend surgery to remove it.
Healthcare providers can prescribe drugs to suppress the immune system for autoimmune diseases.
Summary
There are two types of sudden hearing loss in one ear.
The most common is due to sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Sometimes, sudden hearing loss can be due to a blockage from earwax or a foreign object.
Most people regain their hearing after sudden hearing loss, but its important to see a healthcare provider promptly.
Your chances of regaining your hearing are best if you get treatment quickly.
ENT Health.Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Mass Eye and Ear.Is sudden hearing loss an emergency?April 29, 2020.
Hearing Loss Association of America.Sudden deafness.
National Institutes of Health.Sudden deafness.
Sept. 14, 2018.
2018;127(6):402-405.
