- Sudden hearing loss in one ear needs medical treatment as soon as possible, from a GP or urgent care clinic, as the chances of recovery are better the sooner treatment starts.
- This applies to everyone, even if you wear hearing aids, and even if the change happens in the ear you rely on less.
- Once you have seen a doctor, Resonate can help with an Ear360 hearing assessment to record if anything has changed, but medical care is always the first step, not a studio visit.
What to do
Seek medical treatment as soon as possible from your GP or an urgent care clinic. Starting treatment within 72 hours gives you the best chance of recovery.
This applies even if you wear hearing aids, and even if the change happens in the ear you rely on less.
What this means for you
The sooner SSNHL is treated, the better the outcome. Treatment ideally begins within 72 hours of symptom onset and usually involves high-dose corticosteroids, given orally or by injection. With timely treatment, about one-third of people recover fully, one-third recover partially, and one-third experience no recovery. If permanent hearing loss remains, audiological rehabilitation and hearing aids are options.
Need a hand?
If you think you might have Sudden Hearing Loss, get in touch with your GP or emergency clinic as soon as possible. You can also call us on 0800 737 662 and we'll help point you in the right direction.
Resonate. The Podcast
Kia Ora, my name is Ellen, and I have been an audiologist in New Zealand for over ten years, with eight years dedicated to the Manawatu community.
