28 Jan Recurrent sudden deafness: what can the consequences be?
Sudden hearing loss can change your life from one moment to the next - especially if it occurs frequently. Recurrent hearing loss is more than just a temporary impairment. What health consequences can be associated with it? And what measures can help to minimise the risk in the long term? We at the ENT practice clinic Goethe10 in Frankfurt will enlighten you.
What is sudden deafness?
With a sudden deafness a sudden, usually one-sided, collapse of the Hearing losswhose exact cause often remains unclear. It can be triggered, for example, by circulatory problems in the inner ear. The inner ear, or more precisely the cochlea, is dependent on a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients, which are supplied via tiny blood vessels. If this supply is disrupted, the sensitive hair cells, which are responsible for converting sound into electrical signals, can no longer work properly.
Inflammatory processes, stress, viruses or a dysregulation of the immune system are also possible causes. A sudden loss of hearing is often accompanied by ringing in the ears (Tinnitus) or Dizziness as the inner ear is also responsible for balance. Without prompt treatment, permanent damage can occur, which is why you should always take sudden hearing loss seriously.
Signs of sudden hearing loss
Recurrent sudden hearing loss: what you need to know
Recurrent acute hearing loss is when you repeatedly experience a clearly audible Hearing loss in the same ear or both ears. The hearing loss usually occurs unexpectedly and without any recognisable external triggers. The symptoms can be similar for each incident, such as a significant hearing loss, a feeling of pressure in the ear, tinnitus or dizziness.
From a medical point of view, a recurrent hearing loss occurs when the hearing ability is initially restored after a previous incident, but then recurs weeks, months or years later. This is often associated with a persistent circulatory disorder in the inner ear, recurring stress or other underlying conditions such as autoimmune disorders or problems with the cervical spine.
What are the health risks of recurrent hearing loss?
- Permanent hearing damage
Repeated hearing loss increases the risk that hearing ability will not fully recover. Repetitive circulatory disorders can irreversibly damage the hair cells in the inner ear. - Chronic tinnitus
If hearing loss recurs, there is a risk that the accompanying ringing in the ears will become chronic. This can put a considerable strain on everyday life and lead to sleep disorders or concentration problems. - Dizziness and balance disorders
As the inner ear is also responsible for balance, recurrent damage in this area can cause dizziness and thus disrupt balance. This can increase the risk of falls. - Psychological stress
Frequent hearing loss can be accompanied by anxiety, uncertainty and stress - especially if there is no clearly recognisable cause. The constant worry of another incident can limit quality of life. - Increased risk of permanent hearing loss
Each additional hearing loss can increase the risk of long-term hearing loss. - Concomitant diseases
Recurrent hearing loss can indicate underlying diseases such as autoimmune disorders or vascular problems. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to further health complications. It is therefore important to have such health problems medically clarified.
How can recurrent sudden deafness be treated?
Cortisone therapy
The administration of Cortisone preparations are the state-of-the-art procedure for sudden hearing loss. They have an anti-inflammatory effect, reduce swelling and improve blood circulation in the inner ear. They can be administered orally, as an infusion or directly by injection into the middle ear.
Medication to promote blood circulation
Medication that dilates the blood vessels and increases the oxygen supply may also be suitable for improving the blood supply in the inner ear. This can be particularly helpful in cases of suspected circulatory disorders.
Stress reduction
As stress is a common trigger for sudden hearing loss, relaxation is an important part of treatment. Periods of rest, relaxation techniques or psychological support can help to promote the healing process.
Treatment of accompanying symptoms
Tinnitus, dizziness or feelings of pressure in the ear can be alleviated with complementary therapies. These include acupuncture, physiotherapy or special hearing therapies, for example.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be used for severe or repetitive hearing loss. This involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber to improve the oxygen supply in the inner ear.
Preventing recurrent hearing loss: what can you do?
Fundamentally helpful approaches to prevent a new hearing loss can be:
Stress management
Stress is a common trigger for hearing loss. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, breathing exercises or autogenic training can help to reduce stress levels and promote inner balance. Short time-outs can help to prevent overload, particularly in the case of professional or private stress. Consciously alternating between tension and relaxation is essential for your overall health.
Healthy lifestyle
A balanced diet, regular exercise and sufficient sleep support blood circulation and strengthen the immune system. Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and a low-salt diet can also promote vascular health.
Avoid risk factors
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption impair blood circulation and can therefore also increase the risk of hearing loss. Avoiding these can therefore have a positive effect on vascular health.
Keeping an eye on blood pressure and circulation
Well-regulated blood pressure and healthy blood vessels are crucial. Regular check-ups can help to recognise and treat potential problems at an early stage.
Avoid noise
Chronic exposure to noise can increase the risk of hearing disorders. Hearing protection during loud activities and avoiding constant noise in everyday life are important preventative measures.
Recurrent acute hearing loss: diagnosis and treatment in Frankfurt
Recurrent hearing loss is not only a challenge for the hearing, but can also have a lasting impact on quality of life. This makes it all the more important to act quickly and purposefully in the event of hearing loss in order to avoid permanent damage. A comprehensive Diagnostics and individual Treatment are crucial in order to clarify the cause and minimise the risk of further incidents.
In our ENT practice clinic Goethe10 in Frankfurt you will find competent and experienced contacts who will provide you with comprehensive support in the treatment of (recurrent) sudden hearing loss. Thanks to our holistic care and interdisciplinary expertise, you can be sure of receiving the best possible care.
Don't hesitate to make an appointment if you notice any signs - your hearing health deserves the utmost attention.
Do you have any questions on this topic or would you like to arrange a consultation?
ENT Frankfurt: Dr Thomas Fischer & Dr Albrecht Linke
Your specialists for ear, nose and throat medicine, who will provide you with professional and individualised advice, examinations and treatment in all matters relating to ENT medicine, functional plastic surgery and the aesthetic treatment of changes to the facial skin.
Our news articles are prepared for you to the best of our knowledge and belief and are intended for general education. They are in no way a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis and treatment and are not intended to encourage self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Please always contact your ENT specialist in Frankfurt directly if you have any health complaints!
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