Sudden hearing loss

Sudden hearing loss in one ear, accompanied by noises in the ear (tinnitus), may indicate idiopathic sudden hearing loss. The term is used when no specific trigger for the sudden impairment of hearing can be identified. Typical symptoms are a sudden loss of hearing, accompanied by tinnitus, a feeling of pressure in the inner ear and sometimes hearing a sound at two different pitches. The ENT specialist diagnoses sudden hearing loss when these symptoms occur. Various tests are performed to determine the exact location and extent of the impairment.

Diagnosis

ENT examination: examination of the ear canal and eardrum.

Hearing test: further investigations to assess the hearing disorder more precisely, including otoscopy, tympanometry, audiometry, measurement of otoacoustic emissions, brainstem audiometry and imaging procedures.

Treatment options

Watchful waiting for less severe sudden hearing loss: spontaneous recovery occurs in 30–50% of cases. Another hearing test can be performed after a few days.

Outpatient treatment: in cases of severe sudden hearing loss, accompanying dizziness or an existing hearing disorder in the other ear, treatment with cortisone infusions is recommended. These infusions are intended to reduce hearing loss and promote recovery. This recommendation is accompanied by further investigations to exclude other diagnoses, identify the exact cause of the sudden hearing loss and rule out possible other conditions. It is important that these measures take place under medical supervision to ensure the best possible treatment and care.

Intratympanic cortisone injection: if infusion treatment does not lead to improvement. Cortisone solution is administered with a syringe through the eardrum into the middle ear. This treatment can be repeated several times.

Hearing aids: if hearing loss persists, advice on the use of hearing aids can be provided.

Drug treatment:

Tablets: cortisone tablets may be administered.

Outpatient infusion treatment: prompt treatment with cortisone infusions.

Medication to improve blood circulation: has not been shown to be effective in studies.

It is important to note that rapid, urgent treatment with infusions, as for a heart attack or stroke, is no longer considered strictly necessary today. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and cause of the sudden hearing loss, and a holistic assessment of the patient is crucial to ensure the best possible treatment. Early medical intervention and individually tailored treatment are key factors in the successful treatment of patients with sudden hearing loss.