Types of hearing loss
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss
This needs urgent medical attention
If you have lost hearing suddenly in one ear within 72 hours, do not wait for an appointment. Contact your GP, an emergency department or call us on 0429 561 632 straight away. Treatment is time critical.
What causes it
Symptoms of SSNHL include a sudden decrease in hearing, abrupt onset of tinnitus, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, nearly always in one ear only.
When SSNHL presents, the underlying cause is often unknown. However, it is frequently associated with viral infections that infiltrate the cochlea, the organ responsible for hearing, or with autoimmune diseases.
SSNHL is only preventable if early detection occurs with immediate steroid therapy. However, often this may not help, and in most cases we see, SSNHL is permanent. Treatment options include hearing aids, cochlear implants or assistive listening devices.
At a glance
Is it permanent?
Usually permanent. Outcomes depend heavily on how quickly treatment starts.
Treatment options
- Urgent medical assessment and steroid therapy
- Hearing aids
- Cochlear implants
The first step is always the same
Other types of hearing loss
Hearing loss is rarely just one thing. These are the other types we see and treat.
Sensorineural hearing loss
Permanent. Not treatable through surgical intervention.
Conductive hearing loss
Sometimes reversible. Surgical intervention may partially or fully restore hearing in some cases.
Mixed hearing loss
Partly reversible in some cases, depending on the conductive component.
Noise-induced hearing loss
Permanent, but largely preventable through hearing protection.
Find out exactly what is going on with your hearing
A free hearing checkup includes a hearing test and a plain-English explanation of the result. No cost, no obligation.