What Is Sudden Hearing Loss?

Sudden hearing loss—also called sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL)—can be frightening. One day you hear normally; the next, sounds may seem muffled, distant, or gone entirely in one ear.

For some people, sudden hearing loss feels like “waking up with a clogged ear” that never clears. For others, it may happen instantly during daily activities.

While sudden hearing loss affects roughly 1 in 5,000 people each year, experts believe the real number is higher because many people don’t realize it is a medical emergency. Prompt treatment—ideally within the first 24 to 72 hours—can significantly improve the chance of recovery.

This guide will help you understand what counts as sudden hearing loss, what causes it, and when to call a hearing care professional right away.

What Is Sudden Hearing Loss?

Sudden hearing loss is a rapid drop in hearing that occurs within 72 hours or less, most often in one ear.

Many people describe it as:

• Waking up unable to hear through one ear
• Feeling like water, pressure, or fullness is trapped in the ear
• Sounds suddenly becoming muffled or distorted
• A noticeable drop in volume compared to the other ear

Sudden hearing loss is almost always sensorineural, meaning it involves the inner ear or the hearing nerve—not the outer or middle ear.

Because symptoms can feel similar to a simple ear infection or congestion, many people wait too long to seek treatment. Early evaluation is crucial.

What Causes Sudden Hearing Loss?

In many cases, the exact cause of sudden hearing loss is unknown. However, researchers have identified several common triggers:

1. Viral Infections

Viruses can damage the inner ear or hearing nerve. Even common illnesses—like colds, flu, or upper respiratory infections—may play a role.

2. Circulation Problems

Reduced blood flow to the inner ear can impair hearing almost instantly. This may occur with:

• Migraines
• Vascular (blood vessel) disorders
• Certain chronic health conditions

3. Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) can cause the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack healthy structures in the inner ear.

4. Trauma or Injury

Head injuries, concussions, or rapid pressure changes—such as during airplane travel, diving, or blast exposure—can cause sudden hearing loss.

5. Ototoxic Medications

Certain prescription medications can damage inner ear structures. If symptoms begin soon after starting a new medication, contact your provider promptly.

6. Neurological Conditions

Less commonly, disorders affecting the auditory nerve—such as acoustic neuromas (benign tumors)—can contribute to hearing loss in one ear.

7. Severe Ear Infections

While sensorineural hearing loss occurs in the inner ear, advanced or complicated infections can also trigger sudden changes in hearing.

In many cases, no single cause is found—but treatment is still time-sensitive and may help many people regain some or most of their hearing.

How Sudden Hearing Loss Is Diagnosed

Your hearing care professional or ENT specialist will begin with a comprehensive hearing evaluation, which may include:

• Pure-tone audiometry: Measures how well you hear different pitches and volumes.
• Speech testing: Evaluates clarity and how well you understand spoken words.
• Otoscopy: Uses a lighted instrument to check for blockages, wax, or visible ear problems.
• Balance or vestibular testing: May be recommended if dizziness or vertigo is present.

If sudden sensorineural hearing loss is confirmed, you may be referred to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist for additional imaging or bloodwork.

Treatment Options for Sudden Hearing Loss

Treatment depends on the cause and your overall health, but common approaches include:

1. Corticosteroids

Steroids are the most common and evidence-based treatment for SSHL. They can help reduce inflammation and swelling around the inner ear.

They may be given:

• Orally: As prescription tablets
• Intratympanically: As injections through the eardrum directly into the middle ear

2. Treating Underlying Conditions

If viral infections, autoimmune issues, or circulation problems are suspected, your provider may recommend:

• Antiviral medications
• Immune-modulating therapies
• Treatment for cardiovascular or metabolic conditions

3. Hearing Aids or Assistive Devices

If hearing does not fully return, modern hearing aids and assistive listening devices can help restore communication and clarity. A hearing care professional can recommend options tailored to your specific hearing profile and lifestyle.

4. Ongoing Monitoring

Even after improvement, follow-up hearing tests are important to make sure your hearing remains stable and to detect any changes early.

Can Sudden Hearing Loss Be Permanent?

Many people experience at least partial recovery—especially when treated early. However, in some cases, the hearing loss may be long-lasting or permanent.

If your hearing does not fully return, a hearing care professional can:

• Explain your test results in detail
• Recommend hearing aids or other technologies
• Offer strategies to improve communication and confidence