Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is considered an otologic emergency in which a hearing loss of 30 dB or more is observed at three consecutive frequencies, usually in one ear, over a period of 72 hours or less. Most cases are idiopathic. The hearing loss may be accompanied by a sensation of fullness, tinnitus, and dizziness. The male/female distribution is similar, and although it may occur in any age group, the highest incidence has been reported in the sixth decade of life. Because of the high rate of spontaneous recovery, the true incidence may be higher than estimated. The rate of spontaneous recovery varies from 32% to 65%. Recovery is usually observed within the first 2 weeks after the onset of hearing loss, and if there is no complete recovery by the third month, the probability of recovery is extremely low.