Sudden hearing loss is a rapid loss of hearing, usually in one ear, that occurs over hours or a few days. People may notice it immediately when they wake up or while using the phone. Symptoms can include muffled or reduced hearing, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), dizziness, or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
Causes can include viral infections, circulatory issues, inner ear conditions, or sometimes unknown factors. Because it develops quickly, it is considered a medical concern and should be addressed as soon as possible. Prompt care can improve the chances of recovery.
At Melody Hearing Clinic, our registered hearing aid practitioners provide hearing assessments to help identify sudden hearing loss and guide next steps. We can recommend protective strategies, provide support for tinnitus or balance issues, and offer referrals for medical evaluation when necessary.
Schedule an appointment today with Melody Hearing Clinic for support with sudden hearing loss.
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FAQ
No, plugging your ears does not stop tinnitus. It may make the perception of tinnitus more noticeable. Tinnitus is often more apparent in quieter environments, so when earplugs block external sounds, the absence of background noise can make the tinnitus seem louder or more pronounced.
Tinnitus involves the perception of sound in the absence of any external noise. This condition can manifest as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other types of noise in the ears and often results from various factors, including hearing loss, exposure to loud noises, and certain medical conditions.
While using earplugs to alleviate tinnitus might seem intuitive, this approach can make the condition more noticeable. By blocking out ambient sounds, earplugs can intensify the internal perception of tinnitus, making it stand out even more.
Tinnitus often becomes more apparent in quieter settings. This is because the lack of background noise makes the internal sounds more prominent, which can be particularly noticeable when using earplugs or in otherwise silent environments.
Many people believe that physically blocking sound to the ears, such as with earplugs, will help stop tinnitus. However, since tinnitus originates from within, this method does not effectively treat the underlying issues causing the condition.
Managing tinnitus typically involves a combination of treatments depending on its cause and severity. This may include sound therapy, counselling to help manage the stress associated with tinnitus, and, in some cases, medication.
If you experience persistent tinnitus or if it affects your quality of life, it’s essential to consult healthcare professionals. They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
At Melody Audiology, we understand the challenges of living with tinnitus and are equipped to provide comprehensive support and management strategies tailored to your needs. We recommend scheduling a hearing test tinnitus with our specialists if you are experiencing tinnitus or related hearing issues. A professional evaluation can help determine the underlying causes of your symptoms and guide the development of an effective treatment plan.
Effective management of tinnitus requires a multifaceted approach. If tinnitus affects your daily life, consider contacting Melody Audiology for a professional assessment and tailored treatment options.
Tinnitus is a complex condition that can arise from various underlying factors, such as hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, age-related changes, or certain medical conditions. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, there are management approaches aimed at reducing the impact of tinnitus and improving overall well-being. These approaches may include sound therapy, counselling, lifestyle adjustments, stress reduction techniques, and sometimes the use of hearing aids or other devices to manage related hearing loss. It’s important for individuals experiencing tinnitus to consult with healthcare professionals, such as audiologists or ear, nose, and throat specialists, who can provide personalized guidance and recommend strategies to help manage and cope with tinnitus symptoms.
Yes, tinnitus can indeed be caused by a stroke. When a stroke impacts areas of the brain responsible for auditory processing, such as the temporal lobe or brainstem, it can lead to the onset of tinnitus. This is because a stroke disrupts the normal flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, potentially causing damage to the nerves and brain cells that are essential for interpreting sound. The connection between stroke and tinnitus is particularly important to understand because it highlights how tinnitus is not always a simple ear-related issue; it can be a serious indicator of neurological complications.
Tinnitus that occurs after a stroke may present differently compared to tinnitus caused by other factors such as noise exposure or ear infections. Post-stroke tinnitus can involve more complex auditory sensations, including ringing, buzzing, whooshing, or even hearing phantom sounds. In some cases, the tinnitus may be intermittent, while in others, it could be constant and more difficult to manage. If you’ve experienced a mini-stroke or a major stroke and notice new or worsening tinnitus, it’s critical to get a full evaluation, as tinnitus might be a lingering symptom of the stroke affecting your auditory pathways.
If you suspect your tinnitus is related to a stroke or if you experience sudden ringing in the ears along with other stroke symptoms such as dizziness, vision problems, or difficulty speaking, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing further damage caused by a stroke. Stroke-related tinnitus can sometimes be managed if caught early, and addressing it promptly may help mitigate further complications. Treatment options can include therapies for stroke rehabilitation, medications, and specific interventions targeting the auditory system to manage tinnitus symptoms.
At Melody Audiology, we take tinnitus seriously, especially when it may be linked to serious health conditions like stroke. Our specialized Tinnitus Care Program is designed to provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, using cutting-edge technology to assess the root cause of your tinnitus. If your tinnitus is stroke-related, we will work closely with you and your healthcare providers to create a tailored treatment plan that prioritizes both your hearing health and overall neurological recovery. Whether it’s managing the tinnitus symptoms or addressing the underlying causes, we offer compassionate, expert care to improve your quality of life.
While tinnitus itself has no cure, there are several ways to manage its symptoms, particularly when linked to neurological conditions like stroke. Treatments may include sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and hearing aids designed with tinnitus masking features. At Melody Audiology, we offer personalized solutions including the use of hearing aids that provide relief from tinnitus by amplifying external sounds and reducing the perception of internal ringing. In stroke-related cases, treatment may also involve therapies aimed at improving brain function and restoring blood flow, which could help alleviate the auditory disturbances caused by the stroke.
If you believe your tinnitus may be connected to a stroke, don’t wait to seek professional help. At Melody Audiology, we are dedicated to providing expert care to individuals suffering from tinnitus, especially when it arises after serious events like strokes. With locations across Edmonton, Mill Woods, Sherwood Park, South Edmonton, and St. Albert, our clinics are fully equipped to handle your tinnitus concerns. We use advanced diagnostic tools and personalized care plans to ensure you receive the best possible treatment to manage and reduce tinnitus symptoms. Let our team guide you through the process and help you regain control over your hearing health.
Yes, a hearing test can detect tinnitus. Tinnitus is a common condition that causes ringing in the ears. If you are experiencing any changes in your hearing, it is important to see an audiologist for a comprehensive evaluation.
