Sudden Hearing Loss and Tinnitus: What's the Cause?
I suddenly started having trouble hearing clearly in my ears these past two days, and there's been a persistent buzzing sound, making me feel really uncomfortable. What could be causing this?
Doctor's answer (1)
Long-term exposure to high-decibel noise environments, such as concerts or machinery noise, may cause sudden deafness and tinnitus. This is because noise can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, affecting the normal function of the auditory nerve.
Viruses such as herpes zoster virus and influenza virus can directly affect the auditory nerve or cause inner ear inflammation, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus. Circulatory disorders such as hypertension and atherosclerosis can impair blood supply to the inner ear, potentially causing inner ear dysfunction and resulting in deafness and tinnitus.
Medications such as aminoglycoside antibiotics, diuretics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have ototoxic effects; long-term or excessive use can damage the auditory nerve. Diseases such as Ménière's disease and vestibular neuritis can affect the normal function of the inner ear, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus.
In the event of sudden deafness or tinnitus, immediate medical attention is necessary to undergo comprehensive examinations and determine the underlying cause. Treatment options depend on the specific cause and may include medication, physical therapy, or hearing rehabilitation training. During treatment, patients should avoid noise exposure, maintain healthy lifestyle habits, and actively cooperate with medical treatment to improve the chances of successful recovery.
