What Is Sudden Deafness?
Sudden deafness, or sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), is experienced when an individual experiences an abrupt loss of hearing in one ear. This deafness can occur suddenly or over a time period of about three days. Some individuals might not even become aware of the loss of hearing until they attempt to use the affected ear. SSHL is diagnosed through a simple hearing test and can be caused by many factors. Although this deafness generally is temporary, it is important that anyone who experiences a sudden hearing loss consult a physician immediately so that treatment can be administered.
