Sudden hearing loss Causes: We often ignore problems like slight heaviness in the ears or poor hearing, considering them as minor. Many people think that earwax may have accumulated in the ears or it may be happening due to cold and cough and it will get cured on its own in a few days, but if hearing in one ear suddenly reduces or stops completely, then it should not be taken lightly at all.

According to experts, sometimes this problem occurs due to normal reasons, but in some cases it can be a sign of SSHL (Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss). This is considered a medical emergency. If its treatment is not started on time, the hearing ability can be affected forever. But with timely detection and proper treatment, many patients can regain their hearing ability. Therefore, it is important to have correct information about its causes, symptoms and treatment.

What could be the reason for sudden loss of hearing in one ear?

1. Accumulation of wax in the ears – Many times, excessive wax accumulates in the ears, due to which the passage of sound gets blocked and there is difficulty in hearing. Its symptoms can be feeling of heaviness in the ear, itching, muffled hearing. In such a situation, the doctor drops or removes the earwax safely and hearing can become normal.

2. Ear infection or fluid accumulation – Fluid may accumulate behind the eardrum after a cold, flu, allergy or throat infection. Due to this, sound vibrations do not reach inside properly. Its symptoms are pain in the ear, fever, feeling of blockage in the ears, loss of hearing. Viral infections often heal within a few days, while bacterial infections may require antibiotics.

3. Blockage in Eustachian tube – This tube works to balance the pressure between the ear and the throat. It may swell due to allergy, sinus or cold.

4. Barotrauma i.e. injury due to pressure – During air travel, mountain travel or scuba diving, atmospheric pressure changes rapidly. This may cause a pop-like sound in the ears and may affect hearing. In this situation, frequent swallowing, yawning, chewing gum can be helpful,

5. Effect of loud noise – Prolonged exposure to loud noises like loud music, machines or firecrackers can affect the sensitive cells inside the ear.

6. SSLH – This is the most dangerous condition, in which hearing ability suddenly decreases within a few hours or maximum three days. Many times the patient wakes up in the morning and hears very little sound from one ear. Along with this, there may also be symptoms like ringing in the ears, dizziness, loss of balance, feeling of pop or click in the ears, loss of hearing without pain. According to doctors, this is a medical emergency and its treatment should start within 72 hours.

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How is it treated?

1. If hearing is impaired due to accumulation of wax in the ear, then the doctor gives drops to soften the wax. After this, by safely cleaning or removing the dirt using microsuction technology, one becomes able to hear.

2. In case of ear infection, medicines are given to reduce pain and fever. If the infection is caused by bacteria or persists for a long time, antibiotics and doctor’s monitoring are necessary.

3. If ear pressure worsens due to cold, allergy or sinus, nasal steroid sprays and decongestant medicines can be given. With the help of Valsalva technique, an attempt is made to balance the pressure inside the ear.

4. If there is difficulty in hearing due to loud noise, it is advised to stay away from noise for a few days and take rest. To avoid damage, use of earplugs and sound therapy can be helpful in case of tinnitus.

5. In SSLL, doctors can start steroid therapy immediately. Steroids are given in the form of pills or injections inside the ear to increase the chances of regaining hearing.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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