Sudden Hearing Loss: A Medical Emergency You Shouldn't Ignore

Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency. Learn what it is, why time is critical, and what to do if it happens to you.

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) — a rapid loss of hearing that develops over hours or up to three days — is a medical emergency. Prompt treatment significantly improves the chances of recovery, making it critical to act quickly.

What is sudden hearing loss?

SSHL is defined as a drop in hearing of 30 decibels or more across three consecutive frequencies, occurring within 72 hours. It most commonly affects one ear and may be accompanied by:

A feeling that the ear has "gone dead" or is blocked
Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing)
Dizziness or vertigo
A sense of fullness in the ear

Some people first notice it when they wake up in the morning, try to use the phone on the affected ear, or hear a sudden "pop."

Why it's an emergency

The most effective treatment for SSHL is high-dose oral steroids (typically prednisolone), which are most effective when started within 24–72 hours of onset. Delaying treatment reduces the chances of hearing recovery. Studies suggest that approximately one-third of people with SSHL recover fully, one-third recover partially, and one-third have permanent hearing loss — but early treatment improves these outcomes significantly.

What to do

Contact your GP immediately — request an emergency or same-day appointment. Make it clear that you have sudden hearing loss, as this should be treated as urgent.
If you can't reach your GP, go to A&E — sudden hearing loss warrants emergency department attendance.
Call NHS 111 — if it's out of hours and you cannot get to A&E immediately.

Investigations

Your GP or hospital doctor will likely prescribe steroids immediately and refer you to an ENT specialist for further investigation. Tests may include a full hearing assessment, blood tests, and an MRI scan to rule out conditions such as acoustic neuroma.

After treatment

Even with treatment, some people are left with residual hearing loss. If this occurs, hearing aids or other assistive devices can help. Your ENT specialist or audiologist will discuss the options most appropriate for your situation. Follow-up hearing tests are important to monitor your recovery.

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Frequently asked questions

How quickly should I get treatment for sudden hearing loss?

As quickly as possible — ideally within 24 hours and no later than 72 hours. Treatment with steroids is most effective when started promptly. Don't wait to see if it resolves on its own.

What causes sudden hearing loss?

In many cases, the exact cause is not identified (idiopathic SSHL). Known causes include viral infections, vascular events affecting the inner ear, autoimmune conditions, and acoustic neuroma. Your ENT specialist will investigate to identify any treatable cause.

Can sudden hearing loss happen again?

While most people experience SSHL only once, it can recur. If you've had SSHL before, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any sudden change in your hearing in either ear.