Author Archives: Jim Batchelder

The Southwestern Colorado Ear, Nose & Throat Associates Blog

Sudden Hearing Loss

A sudden change in hearing is a troubling experience. For those with a sudden change in hearing, time can be of the essence and they should be seen by a medical provider as soon as possible. Waiting to see if the loss will go away on its own can result in a permanent hearing loss. Those who are seen within the first 24 to 48 hours of hearing loss have significantly greater success in the recovery of hearing.

A sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) usually occurs over several hours and may vary in the severity. It may have associated dizziness, ear fullness and/or ringing in the ear prior to the loss. These associated symptoms may continue or gradually subside. SSHL most often affects only one ear but could affect both.  It is seen in both men and women equally.

A thorough medical examination by a primary care physician should be completed to rule out those hearing losses that can be easily treated. If there are no obvious signs of cause, a referral to an Otolaryngologist (ENT) is crucial.

The earlier the treatment is initiated, the greater chance for a successful outcome.

Please contact this office should you have any further questions.

 

Services:  Ear, Nose & Throat Services, Head and Neck Surgery, Allergy Testing and Treatment, Audiological Testing, Hearing Aids, Cochlear Implant Services

 

 

 

 

In an effort to be more interactive with our patients we are using this format to share information that you as patients or prospective patients may find useful. We will keep you updated on events that we are hosting and articles, news and information related to the services we provide. Currently those services include but are not limited to:

  • Hearing Aids & Corrective Surgery – Audiological services, hearing aids, Baha implants, Cochlear implants & corrective surgery or certain types of hearing loss.
  • Allergy Treatment – Shot free self administered at home.
  • Head & Neck Surgery – Specializing in Parathyroid & Thyroid surgery using  minimally invasive techniques.

We are excited to use this resource to provide you with useful information and we hope you find it helpful.

Posted in News, January 26th, 2012, 1 Comments