Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Overview

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is hearing loss caused by lesions of the inner ear, the vestibulocochlear nerve (eighth cranial nerve), or the central auditory system, occurring rapidly. Common causes include inner ear infection, ototoxic drugs, head trauma, high-decibel noise, aging, and autoimmune reactions. It presents with sudden hearing loss, often with tinnitus and ear fullness.

Symptoms

• Sudden hearing loss
• Tinnitus
• Ear fullness
• Vertigo

Treatment

Use corticosteroids, microcirculation-improving agents, and neurotrophic drugs as early as possible, combined with hyperbaric oxygen therapy if needed.

Dietary advice

Eat a bland, low-salt, low-fat diet, avoid tobacco, alcohol, and spicy irritating foods, and eat plenty of B-vitamin-rich foods.