Can Viral Infection Affect Your Hearing? Yes.
The research on the impact of viral infections on hearing loss, particularly sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), underscores the importance of timely medical intervention. Studies by Chen et al. (2019) and McIntyre et al. (2021) highlight the potential role of viral infections, including the flu, in causing temporary and permanent hearing loss. These studies emphasize the need for prompt medical attention in cases of SSNHL.
In such cases, it is critical for individuals experiencing sudden hearing loss to seek medical attention promptly, ideally within a 72-hour window from the onset of symptoms. This early intervention, often involving steroid therapy either orally or via intratympanic injection, is crucial for the effective treatment of SSNHL. The timely administration of steroids significantly increases the chances of recovering hearing, whereas delay in treatment reduces the likelihood of effective recovery.
Furthermore, a comprehensive review in Cureus (2021) discussed the various viral infections that can lead to hearing loss, primarily sensorineural, but also conductive and mixed hearing losses. Some viral infections leading to hearing loss can be prevented or treated, and recovery of hearing after such infections can occur spontaneously in some cases.
Given the complexity and varied nature of hearing loss associated with viral infections, it's important for individuals who experience hearing loss, especially sudden or following a viral infection, to consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or an audiologist, for appropriate diagnosis and management.
At Ottawa Hears Audiology, we provide top-quality audiological care with comprehensive hearing assessments to ensure the best hearing health outcomes for our patients.
🌐 Online: For more information or to book an appointment, please visit www.ottawahears.com. Our user-friendly online form is designed for your convenience.
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Note: No medical referral is required to see our knowledgeable, experienced, certified, and regulated Audiologist. Additionally, many of our services are eligible for partial or full coverage by insurance or third-party payers.
References
Chen, X., Fu, Y. Y., Zhang, T. Y. (2019). Role of viral infection in sudden hearing loss. Journal of International Medical Research, 47(7), 2865-2872. DOI: 10.1177/0300060519847860.
McIntyre, K. M., Favre, N. M., Kuo, C. C., Carr, M. M. (2021). Sensorineural Hearing Loss Associated With COVID-19 Infection. Cureus, 13(11), e19757. DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19757.
Cureus. (2021). Systematic Review of Sensorineural Hearing Loss Associated With COVID-19 Infection. Retrieved from PubMed.
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