Unlike typical sensorineural hearing loss, which happens
gradually, sudden hearing loss occurs quickly. Sudden hearing
loss is scary for many patients, particularly because it often
comes without any known cause. Typically, the audiologist or
physician will look for the following potential causes: - Viral
infections - Neurologic problems - Metabolic and immunologic
disease - Trauma to the inner ear - Circulatory problems of the
inner ear (such as Meniere’s disease) Research has also linked
sudden hearing loss with the risk of stroke. If you experience a
sudden, acute loss of hearing, visit your audiologist or
physician or nearest medical center as soon as possible for
diagnosis and treatment.