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Steroid Treatment for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) || Thrissur || Relentcare ENT centre

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At Relentcare ENT Centre, Kolazhy, Thrissur, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) using steroid therapy, the most effective treatment option available.

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What Is Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL)?

SSNHL is a sudden, unexplained loss of hearing in one ear that develops within 72 hours. It is often accompanied by ringing in the ear (tinnitus), ear fullness, and sometimes dizziness. If you experience these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

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Causes of SSNHL

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The exact cause is unknown in most cases, but possible reasons include:

  • Viral infections affecting the inner ear

  • Blood circulation issues leading to lack of oxygen supply to the ear

  • Immune system disorders

  • Vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma) – a rare, benign tumor

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Why Is an MRI Necessary?

An MRI scan is recommended for all SSNHL patients to rule out a vestibular schwannoma. This is the best way to detect the tumor, as it is not visible on a CT scan or through blood tests.

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Will My Hearing Recover?

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Hearing recovery is possible but varies from person to person. Studies show that 32-65% of patients recover to some degree without treatment. However, early steroid treatment significantly improves the chances of recovery.

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Treatment Options for SSNHL

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1. Oral Steroids

  • Pros: Easy to take, convenient.

  • Cons: Potential side effects such as insomnia, weight gain, increased blood pressure, and blood sugar changes.

2. Intratympanic (IT) Steroid Injections

  • Pros: Directly delivers the steroid to the inner ear, avoiding systemic side effects.

  • Cons: Requires multiple clinic visits, small risk of eardrum perforation.

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3. Combination Therapy

  • Oral steroids followed by IT injections have shown better outcomes compared to using either method alone.

  • IT steroids are more effective than oral steroids if treatment starts 2-6 weeks after hearing loss.

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How Are IT Steroid Injections Performed?

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  1. Numbing the eardrum with a local anesthetic.

  2. Injection of the steroid into the middle ear using a fine needle.

  3. Lying still for 15 minutes to allow the medication to reach the inner ear.

  4. Weekly injections for up to 3 weeks, depending on improvement.

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What If My Hearing Doesn’t Return?

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If hearing does not improve, options include:

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Why Choose Relentcare ENT Centre?

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✅ Expert diagnosis and personalized treatment plans
✅ Advanced steroid therapy for SSNHL
✅ State-of-the-art facilities for audiological evaluations and imaging
✅ Compassionate and experienced ENT specialists

If you or a loved one experiences sudden hearing loss, don’t wait! Early treatment is crucial.

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📍 Visit Us: Relentcare ENT Centre, Kolazhy, Thrissur

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