What is Sudden Hearing Loss (SSHL)?

Q: What is the best hearing aid model for me?

In general, any audiologist will always recommend to you the hearing aid model that best suits your needs . Here is a useful checklist to make sure that is the case. Audiologist's level of knowledge: The audiologist you have seen will hopefully have a wide knowledge of all available hearing aids ; however, some will only be familiar with a small number of brands and, therefore, may not really be in a position to know which model is the best for you. It is OK to challenge their recommendation and ask them to justify why this particular brand is the one for you. Do research: Read about the hearing aid that was recommended. Does it seem like it will suit your lifestyle? Does it have more or fewer features than you need? Be aware of sales targets: Many high street retailers have specific tie-ins to a particular manufacturer/brand. The hearing aid they have suggested may still be the correct one for you, but do your research so that you know why they might have recommended it.

Q: What are the benefits of rechargeable hearing aids?

For most people, the main benefit of a rechargeable hearing aid is simple convenience. We are used to plugging in our phones and other devices overnight for them to charge up. Here are some other pros and cons: For anybody with poor dexterity or issues with their fingers, having a rechargeable aid makes a huge difference, as normal hearing aid batteries are quite small and some people find them fiddly to change. One downside is that if you forget to charge your hearing aid , then it is a problem that can't be instantly fixed. For most, a 30-minute charge will get you at least two or three hours of hearing, but if you are the type of person who is likely to forget to plug them in regularly, then you're probably better off with standard batteries. Rechargeable aids are also a little bit bigger and are only available in Behind-the-Ear models. Finally, just like with a mobile phone, the amount of charge you get on day one is not going to be the same as you get a few years down the line. Be sure to ask what the policy is with the manufacturer's warranty when it comes to replacing the battery.

Q: Are Behind-the-Ear hearing aids better than In-the-Ear hearing aids?

For most people, the answer is yes. But it's never that simple. The majority of hearing problems affect the high frequencies a lot more than the low ones. Therefore, open fitting hearing aids sound a lot more natural and ones that block your ears up can make your own voice sound like you are talking with your head in a bucket. Therefore, in-ear aids tend to be less natural. However, the true answer is we can't tell until we have had a look in your ears to assess the size of your ear canal, and until we have tested your hearing to see which frequencies are being affected. People with wider ear canals tend to have more flexibility, also there are open fitting modular CIC hearing aids now that do not block your ears. There is also the age-old rule to consider, that a hearing aid will not help you if it's sat in the drawer gathering dust. If the only hearing aid you would be happy wearing is one that people can't see, then that's what you should get. Most people can adapt to any type of hearing aid , as long as they know what to expect. Have an honest conversation with your audiologist as to what your needs are.

Q: What are channels, and how many do I need?

Generally speaking, six or more. Unless it's none at all. The number of channels a hearing aid has is often a simplistic way an audiologist will use to explain why one hearing aid is better than another, but channels are complex, and it is really not that straightforward. Here are some reasons why: Hearing aids amplify sounds of different frequencies by different amounts. Most people have lost more high frequencies than low, and therefore need more amplification in the high frequencies. The range of sounds you hear is split into frequency bands or channels, and the hearing aids are set to provide the right amount of hearing at each frequency level. Less than six channels, and this cannot be done with much accuracy, so six is the magic number. However, a six-channel aid is typically very basic with few other features and is suitable only for hearing a single speaker in a quiet room. The number of channels is not what you should be looking at; it's more the rest of the technology that comes with them. As a final note, different manufacturers have different approaches. One method is not necessarily better than any other. For example, some manufacturers have as many as 64 channels in their top aids. Most tend to have between 17 and 20. One m anufacturer has no channels at all.

Q: What's covered in a manufacturer's warranty?

Manufacturer's warranties typically last between 2-5 years, depending on the brand and model, and cover defects in materials and workmanship. This includes repairs for component failures, electronic malfunctions, and manufacturing defects, but excludes damage from misuse, accidents, or normal wear. Most manufacturers also include loss and damage insurance for the first year. We handle all warranty claims on your behalf, liaising with manufacturers and ensuring you get replacement devices quickly when needed. This comprehensive warranty coverage, combined with our lifetime aftercare, gives you complete peace of mind.

Q: How much does the hearing test cost?

Our hearing tests are completely free, whether at our clinics or in your home . Unlike other providers who charge £30-£100 for home visits, we believe hearing healthcare should be accessible without financial barriers. Our comprehensive assessments include examination by a registered audiologist, audiogram results, and personalised recommendations. All testing, future adjustments, and ongoing support are included at no extra cost. While NHS tests are also free, typical 6-week waiting periods often lead people to seek immediate private testing. We provide prompt, professional assessments that fit your schedule and budget.

Q: Do you offer home visits, and are they included in the price?

Yes, we offer completely free home visits throughout the UK, and this service is included in our prices with no additional charges. Home visits are particularly valuable for people with mobility issues, busy schedules, or those who simply prefer the comfort and convenience of their own environment. Our audiologists can conduct full hearing tests, fit hearing aids, and provide ongoing support in your home. This service sets us apart from many providers who either don't offer home visits or charge extra for them.

Q: Why are your hearing aids cheaper than what I'd pay on the high street?

We can offer prices up to 40% lower than high street retailers because of our business model. As a network of 200+ independent audiologists , we don't have the massive overheads of large retail chains - no expensive high street premises, no sales targets pushing audiologists to sell the most expensive options, and no costly marketing campaigns. However, we maintain the same buying power as the big chains because we purchase on behalf of our entire nationwide network. This means you get access to the same premium hearing aids with professional service, but at genuinely competitive prices.

Q: How long do I have to try the hearing aids before committing to keep them?

We offer a comprehensive 60-day money-back guarantee, which gives you twice the industry standard time to properly assess whether your hearing aids are right for you. This extended period recognises that adjusting to hearing aids takes time, and your brain needs several weeks to adapt to the amplified sounds. Unlike many providers who offer just 30 days, we believe 60 days gives you the confidence to test your hearing aids in all the situations that matter to you - from quiet conversations at home to busy restaurants and outdoor activities.

Q: Can I really buy hearing aids online without visiting a clinic first? Why can't I do this with your company?

While some companies do sell hearing aids online without professional involvement, we don't offer this service because we genuinely believe it's not in your best interests. Hearing aids aren't like buying glasses online - they require professional assessment, precise programming to your specific hearing loss pattern, and proper fitting to work effectively. Through our network of over 200 qualified independent audiologists across the UK, we ensure you receive a proper hearing test, expert guidance on the right device for your needs, and professional fitting. This approach means you're far more likely to be satisfied with your hearing aids and actually use them regularly.

What is Sudden Hearing Loss (SSHL)?

The causes, risks, symptoms and treatments

Last Hearing Aid UK Update: 19/03/2026

An instant decrease in hearing

Sudden hearing loss is an abrupt decrease in hearing, often occurring within a few days. Causes may include viral infections, vascular issues, or inner ear disorders. Symptoms can include hearing loss in one or both ears, tinnitus, or dizziness.

Visualise waking up one morning and realising you can’t hear out of one ear, or even worse, the world sounds muffled. You might be concerned, thinking it’s just a temporary blockage, but it’s important to seek medical help straight away.

Prompt medical evaluation is important for potential treatment with steroids or other interventions. In this article, we discuss the causes, risks, symptoms, and treatments available.

Getting help quickly matters, and we make it simple. If you're experiencing sudden hearing loss, our audiologists can see you at home or in the clinic, usually within days. There's no charge for the consultation, and if you're worried about someone else, you're welcome to attend with them.

Causes of sudden hearing loss

Sudden hearing loss is a serious and potentially debilitating condition that can occur without warning. It is defined as a hearing loss of at least 30 decibels in three or fewer days, usually affecting one ear.

For example, you might be at a family gathering, chatting with a few people, and then realise that one ear is barely picking up any sound. This could be a sign of SSHL.

What is the most common cause of sudden hearing loss? Sudden hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, inflammation, trauma and exposure to loud noise.

Because of this, it is important to seek medical attention immediately if you experience sudden hearing loss, as prompt treatment can improve outcomes and the success of the treatment.

Imagine enjoying a day at a festival, surrounded by music and conversation, and suddenly, your hearing in one ear goes – that’s a classic scenario where SSHL could occur, and you need to act fast.

Symptoms of SSHL

Symptoms of sudden hearing loss can include a decrease in hearing in one ear, a feeling of fullness in the ear, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and dizziness or vertigo.

You may also notice that when you're driving, the sounds on your radio are no longer as clear in one ear, or when watching TV, it’s harder to follow the dialogue.

The onset of symptoms can be sudden and may occur during everyday activities, such as listening to music or watching television. It could even happen during a peaceful evening at home, making it all the more alarming.

If you've noticed a sudden change in your hearing, even if you're hoping it's temporary, getting it checked quickly is important. The sooner sudden hearing loss is assessed, the better the possible results.

Other things that can cause sudden hearing loss include:

Infection: An ear infection can cause inflammation and swelling in the ear, leading to sudden hearing loss. For example, bacterial and viral infections can both cause sudden hearing loss.

Prompt treatment with antibiotics or antiviral medication may be essential to avoid additional damage. Imagine yourself waking up with a sore ear after a cold and realising that your hearing is affected.

Trauma: Trauma to the head or ear can cause sudden hearing loss. This can be caused by a blow to the head, a fall, or exposure to a loud noise. In some cases, trauma can cause damage to the tiny hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for detecting sound waves.

A construction worker who’s been exposed to loud machinery or someone at a football match might be at higher risk.

Autoimmune disorders: Some autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause sudden hearing loss. These disorders can cause inflammation and damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the ear, leading to hearing loss.

Ototoxic medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs, can be ototoxic, meaning they can cause damage to the inner ear and lead to sudden hearing loss.

Some medications, as necessary as they are, can come with an unexpected side effect: changes to your hearing. If you've recently been through chemotherapy or finished a course of strong antibiotics, it's worth paying attention to how your ears feel in the weeks that follow.

It's not something that's widely talked about, but it's more common than many people realise.

Meniere's disease: It's an inner ear condition that can strike without much warning, bringing with it intense bouts of vertigo, a sudden dip in hearing, and that persistent ringing known as tinnitus.

Exactly why it happens isn't fully understood, but it's believed to be linked to changes in the pressure of fluid deep within the ear. If you've ever found yourself dizzy and struggling to hear at the same time, Ménière's disease is something worth raising with your doctor.

Tumours: A word that understandably causes concern, though it's worth knowing they're not always malignant. Both benign and cancerous growths can develop in or around the ear and the auditory nerve, and either can interfere with hearing.

What matters most in these cases is getting checked out promptly. The sooner the cause is identified, the sooner the right course of action can be taken.

Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss: This is essentially sudden hearing loss without a confirmed cause. It can be frustrating to receive that kind of diagnosis, but research suggests it may be connected to a viral infection, problems with blood flow to the ear, or the immune system behaving in ways it shouldn't.

Even without a definitive answer, there are still treatment paths worth exploring. It is thought that idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss may be related to a viral infection, blood vessel problems, or immune system disorders.

What is sudden hearing loss?

Sudden Hearing Loss

Diagnosing this type of hearing loss

Diagnosing sudden hearing loss

Diagnosis of sudden hearing loss typically comprises a complete medical history, physical examination, and hearing tests. Your healthcare provider may also order imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, to look for any abnormalities in the ear or auditory nerve.

If you’re unable to hear properly after an incident or wake up with muffled hearing, seeking an audiologist’s opinion is vital to determine the following actions.

What to expect at your appointment

From the moment you sit down, the focus is entirely on you. Your audiologist will want to understand the full picture — when you first noticed the change in your hearing, what it feels like, and whether anything else has been going on alongside it. Nothing is too small to mention.

Your ears will be examined to rule out straightforward causes first, like a build-up of earwax, before moving on to a thorough hearing test using professional equipment. You'll get honest, straight-talking advice throughout, including whether your situation calls for an urgent referral elsewhere.

If hearing aids could help, your audiologist will walk you through the options and give you the chance to try different models for yourself. There's no pressure and no obligation to buy anything; it's about finding out what's right for you, not making a sale.

The whole appointment usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour, and if medical treatment needs to come first, you'll be told that clearly and promptly. You won't be left guessing.

Sudden hearing loss treatments

Treatment options for sudden hearing loss may include medication, such as steroids, to reduce inflammation and swelling in the ear.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, may also be used to improve blood circulation and decrease inflammation in the ear.

An individual who works in a noisy environment may receive steroids to reduce inflammation if a viral infection is suspected, or they may be offered hyperbaric therapy in a specialist clinic.

In most cases, hearing aids or cochlear implants may be recommended to improve and support your hearing health.

If you do need hearing aids following sudden hearing loss, we offer all major manufacturers without bias. You'll have 60 days to try them in your real-world environments, at work, in restaurants, during family gatherings, with a full money-back guarantee if they're not right for you. All aftercare, adjustments, and annual hearing tests are included for life, at no additional cost.

Many people find that having their hearing aids fitted and adjusted at home makes the process less stressful, particularly if they're still recovering from the initial shock of hearing loss. All our audiologists offer free home visits across the UK if that fits your needs, rather than clinic appointments.

Sudden hearing loss audiogram

Other treatments for sudden hearing loss can be:

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: This involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, which can help improve blood flow to the inner ear and promote healing.

Hearing aids: If SSHL results in permanent hearing loss, hearing aids are highly recommended to help improve hearing.

Cochlear implants: In some cases, cochlear implants may be recommended for people with severe or profound hearing loss.

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy: This involves exercises and other therapies to help improve stability and lessen dizziness or vertigo associated with SSHL.

For instance, if you experience frequent bouts of dizziness, these rehabilitation exercises can help you regain balance and confidence in your day-to-day activities.

How can you prevent sudden hearing loss?

Medical treatment is only part of the picture; what you do day to day matters too, perhaps more than you'd expect.

Loud noise is one of the most preventable causes of hearing damage, so if concerts, live sports, or noisy working environments are a regular part of your life, ear protection really isn't something to skip. A good pair of earplugs is a small outlay compared to the alternative.

The same mindfulness applies closer to home; those hours spent with headphones in on the commute or at the gym quietly take their toll. Keeping your volume at around 60% or below is a simple rule of thumb that's easy to stick to once it becomes a habit.

It's easy to think of conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease purely in terms of your heart or your blood sugar, but their reach goes further than that. If any of these are part of your daily life, how well you manage them has a direct bearing on your hearing health, too.

These conditions can restrict blood flow and put additional strain on the delicate structures of the inner ear, so working closely with your GP to keep things stable is genuinely worthwhile.

The broader lifestyle stuff matters as well. Eating well, keeping active, sleeping properly, and not smoking all support a healthier circulatory system, and your ears rely on good circulation more than most people realise.

It's also worth being clued up about the medications you're taking. Some drugs, certain antibiotics and chemotherapy treatments among them, can affect hearing, particularly when used at high doses or over an extended period.

If that applies to you, it's a conversation worth having with your doctor. There may be alternatives, or at the very least, ways to keep a closer eye on any changes.

Which brings us to the final point: don't wait until something feels seriously wrong before getting your hearing checked. Regular tests mean that any shift in your hearing can be caught early, when there's still the most room to act.

If you notice anything, speech sounding muffled, a ringing in your ears, or simply that things don't sound quite as clear as they used to, see an audiologist sooner rather than later. Prompt action really does make a difference.

Conclusion

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is a medical emergency, and getting seen quickly can genuinely change the outcome.

Prevention and good habits still have real value, both in reducing your risk and in protecting yourself if it's ever happened before.

It doesn't have to mean overhauling your entire lifestyle either. Small, consistent choices are often what make the difference. Keeping the volume at a reasonable level, reaching for ear defenders before stepping into noisy spaces, and staying on top of your general health.

Getting your hearing tested regularly is something many people overlook until something goes wrong. Don't wait for a problem to prompt it, especially if noise is a regular part of your working day.

Something not quite right with your hearing?

Don't brush it off. Whether your hearing has changed suddenly or you've just noticed things aren't quite as sharp as they used to be, it's always worth getting it looked at. Sudden changes need prompt medical attention — don't wait and see. More gradual shifts are just as important to address, and a hearing assessment is the best place to start.

If you'd simply like to be more proactive about protecting your hearing, our team is here to help with advice that's tailored to you — not a one-size-fits-all answer. Whatever your situation, we're here. Reach out today and take the first step towards better hearing health.

Common FAQs about hearing aids and hearing loss