Sudden hearing loss, (also called sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL)) is a rapid loss of hearing that happens over a period of a few hours up to three days.

It usually affects one ear and often feels like the ear is "blocked" or "full."

• Viral infections

• reduced blood flow to the inner ear

• Autoimmune conditions attacking inner ear structures

• Head injury or loud noise exposure

• Tumors

• Sudden decrease or total loss of hearing in one ear

• Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear

• Ringing or buzzing in ear (also known as Tinnitus)

• Dizziness (in some cases)

• very important to start treatment in the first couple days with a good diagnose by ENT consultation

• Hearing tests to assess the level of loss

• starting steroid treatment as soon as possible under ENT supervision

• In some cases, antiviral or other medications may be used depending on the suspected cause.

• Hearing aids or cochlear implants if hearing does not return

• If you notice a sudden drop in hearing in one ear or both even if it seems mild — seek medical care immediately.

• The sooner treatment is started, the better the chance of recovery.