Treating Your Temporary Hearing Loss

Anyone can suffer from temporary hearing loss, but it is likely to affect those who have been recently exposed to loud sounds, have obstructed ear canals, used certain medications, have an ear infection or a very bad cold. Usually, your hearing is quickly restored in one or two days. If it is not restored within two days, seek treatment immediately.

Is the hearing loss occurring in one ear or both ears?

When hearing loss happens to one ear you may experience sudden single-sided deafness. Normally this calls for immediate medical treatment, otherwise it may be permanent. Do not try to self-treat the one-sided hearing loss at home, it could result in further damage. If both ears are affected you will most likely have your hearing restored. Sudden hearing loss in both ears is generally temporary. 

How to treat temporary hearing loss

For temporary hearing loss due to exposure to loud sounds: Very loud noises - for example sound coming from the speakers that you may stand by at a rock concert - may cause temporary hearing loss. This type of noise exposure is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). If this has happened to you, take a break and refrain from coming in contact with any loud noises.  

Your hearing will most likely be restored, but there may be long-term damage to your ear’s hair cells. If your hearing does not improve in at least one day, seek help from a professional.

Remember to wear ear protection next time you engage in any loud activities. This will help protect your hearing health from additional damage.

For blocked ear canals

Ear infections: Overall, inflammation due to ear infections will clear up on their own. Your hearing should be restored. If you have any pain or discharge from your blocked ear, or you are experiencing severe headaches, high fever, or a stiff neck due to the earache consult a doctor. 

Earwax: Earwax is necessary to have in your ears. Its main duty is to trap dust particles and other debris before they come in contact with your eardrum. Earwax will naturally fall out of your ear canal, and that is when you can safely remove it. If earwax has become impacted due to excessive production, contact a professional to remove it. 

Swimmer’s ear: If you recently swam in water and your ears itch, are in pain or feel full, you might have swimmer’s ear. This is an infection that affects your outer ear canal, and typically happens when water stays in your ear after swimming. It may also be caused by abrasions or scrapes in your ear canal from using cotton swabs, hairpins or your finger to clean out your ear canal. Using any of these items to clean out your ear can increase the chance of getting swimmer’s ear. 

If you, or a loved one, are suffering from temporary or permanent hearing loss, please contact us for a free hearing test and consultation. 

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