Did you know that, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, approximately one in three adults between the ages of 65 and 74 experience hearing loss?
While gradual hearing decline is common with aging, sudden hearing loss can be particularly alarming for seniors, often occurring without warning and significantly impacting daily life.
Today, we're taking a closer look into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for sudden hearing loss in seniors, as well as preventive measures to help maintain optimal hearing health.
Sudden hearing loss is a rapid and unexpected loss of hearing, usually in one ear. There are three primary signs:
Seniors with sudden hearing loss often describe sounds as dull or distant. They may struggle to hear voices, making it hard to follow conversations. It can happen even if there is no pain or other symptoms and often necessitates audiology services.
Many people notice ringing, buzzing, or humming in the affected ear. Some also describe a blocked or stuffed feeling, similar to having water in the ear. It can be a sign that the inner ear is not functioning properly.
Hearing loss can make speech sound unclear, even if the volume seems the same. It can lead to frustration, as words may blend together or seem incomplete. If these symptoms appear suddenly, seeking emergency hearing care can improve the chances of recovery.
Sudden hearing loss can happen for different reasons. Some causes are temporary, while others may lead to lasting hearing impairment. Identifying the underlying issue is important for choosing the right treatment.
There are three primary causes of sudden hearing loss:
Certain viruses can affect the inner ear, leading to sudden hearing loss. The flu, measles, mumps, and even the common cold have been linked to hearing problems.
Infections may cause inflammation, which can block signals between the ear and the brain. Some people recover fully, while others experience permanent hearing impairment. Early treatment can reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Blood flow plays a major role in ear function. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can reduce circulation to the inner ear.
When blood flow is blocked, the tiny hair cells responsible for processing sound may stop working. In some cases, restoring blood flow quickly can bring back lost hearing. It's why sudden hearing loss should never be ignored.
Some drugs are known to cause hearing impairment. These include certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and diuretics. Some over-the-counter pain relievers have also been linked to hearing loss.
If a person notices a sudden change in hearing after starting a new medication, a doctor should be consulted right away. Stopping or adjusting the dosage may help prevent further damage.
Sudden hearing loss should always be treated as an urgent medical issue. Many seniors assume that a change in hearing will improve on its own, but waiting too long can lower the chances of recovery. Hearing loss that appears quickly should never be ignored, especially when other symptoms are present.
There are three clear signs that emergency hearing care is needed:
Hearing that disappears within hours or overnight is a sign of sudden hearing loss. Some people wake up and notice their hearing is gone, while others realize they can no longer hear after a loud popping sound in the ear. Getting help within the first 72 hours can improve the chances of hearing restoration.
The inner ear plays a role in balance. When hearing loss comes with dizziness, vertigo, or trouble walking, it may be connected to an inner ear disorder.
Some conditions, such as Meniere's disease or a viral infection, can affect both balance and hearing. A doctor can help determine the cause and start treatment.
Pain or fullness in the ear may be a sign of an infection, fluid buildup, or a blockage. In some cases, these symptoms come with sudden hearing loss. If the pain is severe or does not go away, an audiologist or ear specialist should evaluate the problem as soon as possible.
Doctors use different methods to diagnose sudden hearing loss. The goal is to determine how much hearing has been lost and find the cause. This helps in choosing the right treatment. There are three primary steps in the diagnostic process:
An audiologist or hearing specialist will perform a hearing test called an audiogram. It measures how well a person hears different tones and speech at varying volumes.
Another test, called a tympanogram, checks how the eardrum responds to pressure changes. These tests help confirm if the hearing loss is related to the inner ear or another part of the auditory system.
A doctor will examine the ear to check for fluid buildup, blockages, or visible damage. Sometimes, earwax or an infection can cause hearing impairment, and removing the obstruction or treating the infection can improve hearing. If nothing unusual is found, the doctor may look for signs of nerve-related hearing loss.
If the cause is not clear, a doctor may order an MRI or CT scan. These tests can detect tumors, blood vessel problems, or structural issues in the inner ear.
In some cases, blood tests are used to check for autoimmune diseases or infections that might be affecting hearing. The extra steps help doctors rule out serious conditions and find the best course of treatment.
Sudden hearing loss can be alarming, but quick action improves the chances of recovery.
At Conservatory At Alden Bridge, we offer independent senior living with top-tier amenities in The Woodlands, named Best City to Live in America in 2021 by Niche.com. Our community provides easy access to parks, trails, shopping, and entertainment, including The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your loved one's retirement years!