UNDERSTANDING
INTRODUCTION
Hearing plays a vital role in our daily lives—whether communicating, enjoying TV, or staying safe in traffic. However, we often don’t realise its importance until something changes, such as sudden hearing loss.
As the name suggests, sudden hearing loss occurs over a short period, usually within 72 hours, and typically affects only one ear. It can happen without pain or obvious symptoms, making it confusing for those experiencing it for the first time.
Many people may ignore it at first—turning up the volume or asking others to repeat themselves—hoping it will resolve on its own. However, delaying action can reduce the chances of recovery.
At Empower Hearing, we’ve created this presentation to help you understand the signs of sudden hearing loss and when to seek professional help, so you can act quickly and confidently.
SUDDEN HEARING LOSS: A MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Sudden hearing loss, also known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), occurs when hearing drops rapidly, usually within 72 hours. It often affects only one ear and can happen without pain or visible symptoms.
Due to its quick turnaround time and life-altering consequences, it is considered a medical emergency.
The key to minimising its effects lies in early assessment through a professional auditory test. The sooner hearing exams are performed, the better the likelihood of protecting long-term hearing health.
Also, prompt diagnosis and early treatment can significantly improve recovery time.
Early medical treatment may include an urgent GP/ENT review after the hearing test and, in many cases, medical treatment; so acting quickly gives the best chance of recovery
COMMON SIGNS OF SUDDEN HEARING LOSS
Sudden hearing loss doesn’t always announce itself loudly. In many cases, people notice something feels “off” rather than completely wrong. Here are sudden hearing loss signs to watch for:
1. SUDDEN MUFFLED OR DISTORTED HEARING
You may hear unclear, robotic, or distant sounds even in quiet rooms.
2. BUZZING, RINGING, OR HUMMING SOUNDS IN THE EAR
You may experience a buzzing, ringing, or humming sound in the ear often linked to tinnitus.
3. DIFFICULTY UNDERSTANDING SPEECH
You may hear sounds but struggle to make sense of words, particularly consonants like “s,” “f,” or “t.”
4. A FEELING OF FULLNESS OR PRESSURE
You may feel your ear to be “blocked,” even when there is no wax buildup.
5. TROUBLE HEARING ON ONE SIDE
You may notice an imbalance when wearing headphones or difficulty locating the source of sounds.
If you or your loved ones experience these signs suddenly, a hearing test should be scheduled immediately.
HEARING LOSS SYMPTOMS THAT SHOULDN’T BE IGNORED
As an individual affected with sudden hearing loss, you may experience changes in your day-to-day life, which might include:
• Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
• Turning the TV volume higher than usual
• Struggling to hear children’s or soft-spoken voices
• Feeling mentally drained after conversations
• Avoiding social situations due to hearing difficulty
These signs often point to underlying hearing damage that can worsen without intervention.
WHAT CAUSES SUDDEN HEARING
LOSS?
But why does sudden hearing loss happen? It might be the question you must be wondering about! So, the suspected factors that lead to sudden hearing loss in individuals include:
• Due to an infection in the inner ear.
• Circulation issues that reduce blood flow to the auditory system
• Inflammation of the auditory nerve
• Head trauma or sudden pressure changes
• Autoimmune inner ear conditions
While these causes vary, the symptoms often appear similar, making professional hearing exams essential for accurate diagnosis.
CONCLUSION
Hearing changes don’t always come with pain or visible symptoms, but they still deserve immediate attention.
Understanding hearing loss symptoms, recognising sudden hearing loss signs, and prioritising timely hearing tests can protect not just hearing, but overall quality of life.
If you’re dealing with or experiencing the signs and symptoms of sudden hearing loss, look no further than Empower Hearing.
Our experienced audiologists will provide you with the highest-quality care and protection. They will take the immediate measures needed to diagnose the issue early and guide you toward the most effective treatment.
Also, we have a closely tied network encompassing Canberra’s trusted GPs and ENT specialists. If need be, our audiologists can also involve them to provide you with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Regain confidence in your hearing and daily life by consulting with us today.
