Abstract
The purpose of this case study is to support best practices in treating sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), particularly the importance of immediate audiological evaluation and treatment of suspected SSNH to ensure an optimal outcome. SSNHL is most commonly defined as a hearing loss of 30 dB or greater at three consecutive frequencies that occur within 72 hours.1 SSNHL can develop at any age, but it most commonly occurs in patients aged 65 and older.2 In the United States,2 it is estimated to affect 27 in every 100,000 people. Those with this condition often discover their hearing loss upon waking up in the morning, after hearing a loud popping sound, or when using their phones on the affected side. Although most cases of SSNHL are idiopathic, differential diagnoses include viral infections and autoimmune diseases (10-15%4), as well as retrocochlear lesions.3,4 Audiological diagnosis should begin with a review of the patient's history for any potential underlying conditions that could explain the hearing loss. If no underlying conditions or other diagnoses can be established, the diagnosis of an SSNHL is assumed. When previous audiometric results are unavailable for unilateral losses, hearing threshold levels and other test findings on the contralateral ear are used as a reference for pre-existing hearing status in the affected ear.