My Own Little Public Service Announcement
On the 2nd anniversary of my “little adventure”, I just wanted to post a quick PSA.<br><br>Should you, or anyone you know, ever experience a sudden loss of hearing (mine occurred overnight but I’ve heard plenty of stories of people experiencing it at all times – while talking on the phone, while waiting at a train crossing, etc.) get in to see an ENT (Ear-Nose-Throat) doctor or an otologist AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. This is possibly a condition known as “sudden sensorineural hearing loss” and requires immediate attention. There is roughly a 5 - 10 day “window of opportunity” to start treatment (typically steroids) during which there is a better chance (maybe 50%) of regaining the hearing than if you wait. Many general practitioners (mine included) will try to treat the hearing loss as a simple ear infection or allergies and, in doing so, you lose valuable time in the window of opportunity – and that’s IF you can get an appointment on short notice (I couldn't). GP's simply aren't qualified to treat this. At the very least, if you must go to your primary care physician, bring up the possibility of SSHL (and don’t wait a week for an appointment!) <br><br>While I had never heard of this condition, it is far more common than even doctors I’ve spoken with knew. The loss of hearing is typically in one ear (90% of the time) though it can occur in both. It can be sudden or occur gradually over the span of several days and it should be considered a medical emergency. I should note that some people will regain their hearing without doing anything, some will regain a portion over time and some will not regain any hearing (despite treatment). The chance of recovery seems to be related to the degree of hearing loss experienced. In any case, it is still my recommendation to get to a specialist to give yourself every opportunity for recovery.<br><br>Hopefully, if I keep getting this information out there, maybe one of these days it will give someone a better chance at regaining their hearing should they experience this condition. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.<br><br>One more thing: TURN THE VOLUME DOWN! While moderate to severe tinnitus (ringing in the ears) usually accompanies SSHL, I've found that I also have alot of ringing in my "good" ear - a direct result of too much volume and not enough protection while participating in loud activities (even mowing the yard!). Take it from me, you don't want to deal with this. I'll lay odds that many of you already have some degree of it - go into a quiet room and listen. What do you hear? My tinnitus sounds like the steam whistle from a boiling teapot - and yes, it's a 24/7 thing. TURN THE VOLUME DOWN & protect those ears!<br><br>
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