Sudden hearing reduction needs immediate assessment, even if it feels only like a blocked ear. Prompt ENT and audiological evaluation is important for treatment opportunities in sensorineural loss.
Examination distinguishes wax and middle-ear causes; an audiogram identifies the type of loss. The 72-hour description concerns sudden onset, not a waiting period or absolute treatment deadline. A clinician may consider steroids and further investigation according to suitability. A guaranteed recovery percentage is inappropriate; delayed presentation still warrants assessment. Call emergency services with facial or arm weakness or speech disturbance.
The ear canal and eardrum are examined; hearing tests and tympanometry may be needed. Do not insert cotton buds or other objects. If you have a perforation, a tube or previous ear surgery, a clinician should choose drops or irrigation.
Sudden hearing loss, facial weakness, severe dizziness, swelling behind the ear or rapidly worsening pain require urgent assessment.
This information does not replace an individual consultation. Diagnosis and treatment depend on a medical assessment.
Consultation and treatment