WHAT IS SSHL?
SUDDEN SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS
SSHL is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. It can happen at any time to anyone regardless of age or whether they have had previous hearing problems. For some people the hearing loss is temporary but most others recover through emergency treatment, commonly high dose steroid medication. Left untreated it can result in permanent hearing loss.
SSHL is defined as a drop of at least 30 decibels in more than three frequencies over a short period of time. It may be in both ears but is more commonly in just one ear.
Aston Hearing offers an emergency out of hours contact number to call if you think you are experiencing SSHL.
Please call 07973430684 outside of our working hours or 01494 733840.
We can advise on the best appropriate action for you to take.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
SUDDEN SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS
These can vary but some people notice a ‘pop’ before their hearing disappears, others note their hearing fades away. Quite often people wake up and find they have lost hearing and it may only be apparent when using the phone on the affected ear. You may well experience vertigo (dizziness) or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
WHAT CAUSES SSHL?
SUDDEN SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS
The causes are not fully understood but can range from a viral infection to blood circulation or trauma. It may even be a symptom of an autoimmune condition. For most people the exact cause is unknown.
WHAT SHOULD I DO?
SUDDEN SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS
If you notice any of these signs you should seek professional help as soon as possible. Go to A&E and ask to see an ENT specialist. If you are able to see a private Audiologist before you go and have an audiogram, it may make it easier for A&E to understand what is happening. SSHL is not a visible condition and can progress quickly if not treated with urgency.