A Medical Emergency You May Not Recognize: Sudden Hearing Loss

Imagine waking up one morning and noticing that hearing in one ear has suddenly become muffled or nearly gone. You may also experience ringing in the ear, dizziness or a feeling of pressure or fullness. This frightening experience may be caused by sudden idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL), also known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL).

ISSNHL is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate evaluation by an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT).

The word “idiopathic” means that the exact cause is unknown. Despite extensive research, ENTs often cannot determine why this condition occurs. Potential causes may include viral infections, inflammation, circulatory problems or autoimmune processes, but many never receive a definitive answer.

The encouraging news is that recovery may be possible, especially when treatment begins quickly.

Time plays a critical role in hearing outcomes. Research suggests that individuals who receive prompt treatment may have a better chance of regaining some or even all of their lost hearing. Because of this, anyone experiencing sudden hearing loss should seek medical attention immediately rather than waiting to see if symptoms improve on their own.

Treatment typically begins with corticosteroids, either in pill form or through injections directly into the middle ear. Hearing tests and additional imaging studies may also be recommended by the ENT.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has emerged as an additional treatment option that may improve outcomes for certain patients. HBOT involves breathing oxygen inside a pressurized chamber, increasing the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood plasma and improving oxygen delivery to the delicate structures of the inner ear.

For ISSNHL, treatment protocols generally utilize hard-shell hyperbaric chambers operating at deeper pressures. In some cases, health insurance may provide coverage for HBOT when prescribed for sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

Unfortunately, quick access to treatment can sometimes be challenging. In the Portland metro area, wait times for hospital-based hyperbaric chambers may extend for several weeks or even longer. Because earlier treatment is generally associated with better outcomes, many individuals choose to seek immediate access to hard-shell hyperbaric chambers outside of the hospital system while waiting for an opening within a hospital program.

Even individuals who do not experience complete recovery may still regain meaningful improvements in hearing, tinnitus or overall quality of life with timely treatment.

The most important first step is seeing an ENT as soon as possible. Anyone considering a hyperbaric protocol should consult with their physician. When used under trained guidance, HBOT may offer significant support for those suffering from ISSNHL symptoms.

Sudden hearing loss can be frightening and overwhelming, but there is reason for hope. Early diagnosis and timely treatment may significantly improve the chances of recovery.

To learn more, visit www.renewal.care or call 503-724-1212. Named Best of Beaverton for Holistic Wellness at our award-winning facility.