Sudden Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods
Sudden hearing lossis a serious health problem that negatively affects the lives of many people. It is usually 72 hours Hearing loss that develops within a person is not taken seriously by patients and this situation is noticed late. In this article, we will make a comprehensive review of what sudden hearing loss is, its causes, symptoms and treatment methods.
What is Sudden Hearing Loss?
Sudden hearing loss is the presence of at least three consecutive frequencies in hearing tests. 30 decibels This type of hearing loss is usually seen in one ear occurs, but rarely in both ears It can also be seen. Sudden hearing loss is diagnosed with a detailed hearing test.
Causes
There are many causes of sudden hearing loss. Although the cause is often unknown, the following factors play an important role:
- Viral Infections: Diseases such as mumps and measles can cause damage to the inner ear and lead to sudden hearing loss.
- Vascular Diseases: Problems with blood flow can damage the inner ear tissue.
- Chronic Diseases: Some chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension can predispose to hearing loss.
- Inner Ear Diseases: Diseases such as Meniere's disease can also cause sudden hearing loss.
Symptoms
Sudden hearing loss usually begins suddenly and may present with the following symptoms:
- Tinnitus: Tinnitus is also frequently seen along with sudden hearing loss.
- Hard of Hearing: Difficulty in hearing sounds, especially high frequency ones, may occur.
- Feeling of Fullness in the Ear: Some patients may experience a feeling of fullness in their ears.
- Balance Problems: Problems with the inner ear can lead to balance problems.
Diagnostic Methods
Sudden hearing loss is diagnosed by detailed examinations and hearing tests performed by specialist physicians. Hearing tests are of great importance in determining the patient's current hearing level. As a result of these tests, comprehensive information about the patient's ear health is obtained and the treatment process is initiated.
Treatment Methods
Treatment for sudden hearing loss varies depending on the severity and cause of the condition. Here are some common treatments for sudden hearing loss:
- Medication: When diagnosed early, hearing loss can be treated with medication. Corticosteroids promote healing by reducing inflammation.
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: It is another method recommended for patients who do not respond adequately to drug treatment. This treatment can accelerate healing by increasing the oxygen level in the inner ear.
- Supportive Therapy: If hearing loss becomes permanent, supportive treatments such as hearing aids or implants may be used.
Important points
In sudden hearing loss early diagnosis and treatment The process is extremely important. The longer the delay in starting treatment, the less likely it is that the expectation of recovery will be. Therefore, when a sudden hearing loss is felt, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. To the ENT Specialist It is of great importance for patients to seek professional help without delay when they experience hearing loss along with symptoms such as tinnitus.
