Growing old can be tough on your body. One of the many problems that you may encounter is sudden hearing loss as an adult.
While it is extremely rare for anyone to suffer from sudden hearing loss, it is more likely to occur as an adult.
There are several explanations for sudden hearing loss during adulthood.
One of the most common reasons for sudden hearing loss as an adult is one of several diseases.
There is actually a very long list of diseases that are suspected to cause hearing loss.
Among these are meningitis, syphilis, and oddly enough, leukemia. The highest concentration of cases of sudden hearing loss as an adult is 46-49 years old. The average incidence rate is 20 cases per 100,000 people.
Many theories are currently being formulated by scientists about the exact cause of hearing loss as adults. One of the main theories is a recent upper respiratory infection.
Nearly 60% of people suffering from a case of hearing loss that comes on suddenly report symptoms of an upper respiratory infection within the 4 weeks preceding their hearing loss. This cause could point to a specific type of infection that affects the body’s ability to hear. There has been no definitive link to this cause as of yet.
Sudden hearing loss as an adult is nearly unheard of. However, the number of cases reported each year is rising.
If you begin to lose your hearing, go to a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
Some cases of sudden hearing loss as an adult are permanent, however, some are temporary and the sooner you seek treatment, the higher your rate of success for regaining your hearing.