When “Something Feels Off” Shouldn’t Wait
Most hearing changes happen slowly. Maybe the TV volume creeps up a little. Maybe conversations in restaurants become harder to follow. Often, hearing loss is gradual enough that we adjust without even realizing it.
But sometimes hearing can change suddenly—and when that happens, it’s important to pay attention.
A sudden drop in hearing may happen in one ear or both, and it can develop over just a few hours or a couple of days. Some people describe it as feeling like their ear is plugged or muffled. Others first notice it when they pick up the phone and realize one ear sounds very different from the other.
There can be several reasons for a sudden change in hearing. Sometimes the cause is something relatively simple, such as earwax, congestion, or fluid behind the eardrum. But sudden hearing loss can also involve the inner ear or hearing nerve and may need prompt medical treatment.
That’s why my advice is simple: don’t wait and hope it goes away.
If you notice a sudden or significant change in your hearing, contact your physician or an ear, nose and throat specialist as soon as possible. If you can’t reach your regular provider promptly, an urgent care clinic or emergency department can help guide you to the appropriate care.
You may also notice ringing in the ear, pressure or fullness, dizziness, or balance problems along with the hearing change. Be sure to mention any of these symptoms when seeking care.
A hearing evaluation can help determine how much your hearing has changed and provide useful information for your medical provider. With certain types of sudden hearing loss, getting treatment early can make a meaningful difference.
As a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist, much of what I do is help people hear and communicate more comfortably every day. Just as important, though, is knowing when a change in hearing deserves medical attention.
You know what sounds normal to you. If something suddenly doesn’t sound right, listen to that instinct and get it checked.
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