What is progressive and sudden hearing loss?

Progressive and sudden hearing loss refer to different types of hearing loss with distinct characteristics and causes. Here's an explanation of each:

Progressive hearing loss:

Progressive hearing loss is a gradual loss of hearing over time. It typically affects both ears and can range from mild to severe. The decline in hearing may be so gradual that a person may not notice it initially, but it becomes more pronounced over months or years.

Causes of progressive hearing loss include:

- Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis): This is the most common cause of progressive hearing loss and occurs as a result of natural aging processes.

- Noise-induced hearing loss: Long-term exposure to loud noises, such as machinery, music, or industrial noise, can damage the delicate structures in the inner ear and lead to progressive hearing loss.

- Genetic factors: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to progressive hearing loss.

- Certain medical conditions: Conditions such as Meniere's disease, otosclerosis, or certain medications (ototoxic drugs) can also cause progressive hearing loss.

Sudden hearing loss:

Sudden hearing loss refers to a rapid and significant loss of hearing that occurs over a short period, often within a few hours or days. It can affect one ear (unilateral) or both ears (bilateral). Sudden hearing loss is considered a medical emergency and requires prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Causes of sudden hearing loss include:

- Acoustic trauma: This can occur due to exposure to extremely loud noises, such as explosions or sudden loud music.

- Viral infections: Certain viral infections, such as mumps, measles, or herpes zoster, can affect the inner ear and cause sudden hearing loss.

- Meniere's disease: This is a condition characterized by episodes of dizziness (vertigo), hearing loss, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

- Autoimmune disorders: Conditions such as autoimmune inner ear disease or Cogan's syndrome can lead to sudden hearing loss.

- Blood circulation issues: Sudden hearing loss can be associated with circulatory disorders such as blood clots or vascular irregularities.

- Certain medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can have a side effect of sudden hearing loss.

It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience sudden hearing loss. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of recovering some or all of the lost hearing.