Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is defined as a sudden decrease in hearing of 30 dB or more at three consecutive frequencies. In most cases, the cause of sudden sensorineural hearing loss is idiopathic (of unknown origin):
Symptoms:
- Acute onset of hearing loss over a window of 72 hours
- Usually unilateral but can be bilateral
- Typically noticed upon waking or when using the telephone
- 70% of cases also experience tinnitus
- 50% of cases also experience vertigo
IMMEDIATE REFERRAL TO A REGISTERED AUDIOLOGIST FOR A HEARING EVALUATION IS RECOMMENDED
Our clinics will always prioritize potential SSNHL cases and do our very best to have you assessed the same day. If a SSNHL is diagnosed, immediate referral to ENT is recommended unless the referring physician can provide corticosteroid therapy at their discretion.
Visit our website www.sackvillehearing.ca for more information
