#SuddenSensorineuralHearingLoss #ISSNHL #HearingLoss #HyperbaricOxygenTherapy #Corticosteroids #ISSNHLTreatment #HyperbaricMedicine #ENT #Otolaryngology #Audiology #ISSNHLCauses #HearingHealth #ISSNHLPrognosis #ISSNHLWorkup
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL), predominantly idiopathic (ISSNHL) in 88% of cases, is defined as an abrupt 30 dB loss across more than 3 frequencies within 3 days, usually unilateral with associated symptoms like tinnitus. Its multifactorial causes (vascular, viral) are debated but strongly linked to cardiovascular risk factors, suggesting ISSNHL may warn of stroke. Treatment is complex, with more than 60 protocols explored. Evidence supports corticosteroids (systemic/IT) and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO2), with combination therapy showing greatest efficacy, especially for severe loss. Early treatment is critical, ideally starting HBO2 within 14 days. Routine use of other therapies (antivirals, vasodilators) is not recommended due to lack of evidence. Diagnosis involves audiometry and excluding other causes (e.g., MRI for retrocochlear pathology). Hearing loss is the most common global disability.
source
UHMS 09 Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
