Sudden Hearing Loss

by Malorie VanWinkle, PA-C

Man cupping his ear to hear

What is Sudden Hearing Loss?

Imagine you are going about your day when, all of a sudden, you cannot hear out of one ear. My patients often describe it as:

  • A sudden loss of hearing in one ear
  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
  • Sometimes with ringing in the ear, called tinnitus


This condition is called Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL). While this can be alarming, knowing what to do right away makes all the difference.

What causes Sudden Hearing Loss? 

We don't always know exactly why sudden hearing loss happens. It is likely related to a viral or bacterial infection, even if you don’t have typical cold or flu symptoms.

I often see sudden hearing loss in patients over the age of 40, but it can occur at any age. It is rare in children.

There are not always tests that pinpoint the exact cause of sudden hearing loss. In my experience, the best results come from using treatments I’ve consistently seen work for my patients.


What are the treatments for Sudden Hearing Loss?

The good news: about two-thirds of patients recover at least some hearing if they seek care quickly. The sooner treatment starts, the better the outcome.

If you experience symptoms of sudden hearing loss:

  • Call ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) right away, our team tries to offer same-day or next-day appointments
  • If it’s the weekend or you can’t be seen promptly, go to the emergency room or urgent care. Do not wait to see if it improves on its own

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation around the hearing nerve. This is usually done with steroid medication, either:

  • Injected directly into the ear
  • Taken by mouth (oral pill)

Seek help immediately if you notice:

  • Sudden loss of hearing in one ear
  • A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear without pain
  • Ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus)
  • Hearing loss that develops overnight

My team and I feel strongly about spreading awareness. Too often, patients wait and hope their hearing will return on its own. The reality is:

  • The longer you wait, the lower your chances of recovery
  • Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency

If you, a family member, or a friend, experiences symptoms of sudden hearing loss, seek treatment right away. At Northfield Hospital + Clinic, we are here to help.

Learn more about Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) services. Learn more about Malorie VanWinkle.