Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss A Case Study and Pilot Project

Abstract

Sudden hearing loss is considered a medical emergency that involves a sudden decrease in hearing in one or both ears. Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) is a sensorineural hearing loss of at least 30 dB HL at three consecutive frequencies over a period of 72 hours. Diagnosis and treatment should not be delayed; an audiometric assessment and referral to an otolaryngologist will significantly increase the likelihood of recovery when appropriate. This paper offers a case study and resources for primary care health professionals to differentiate the type of hearing loss observed and obtain a referral as soon as possible for an audiological assessment to confirm SSNHL.