COVID-19 has some uncommon symptoms including dampening your sense of taste and smell. Indeed, loss of smell is often one of the first indications of infection. But COVID-19 impacts more than just your sense of taste and smell. Sensorineural hearing loss is an uncommon and long-term problem according to new findings.
How is Hearing Loss Caused by COVID-19?
Each day scientists are discovering more with regards to COVID-19. But there’s still a lot we don’t understand. The virus itself was only first observed late in 2019. Normally, scientists work for years, even decades, to fully describe a new pathogen. And COVIC-19 is particularly challenging because it impacts different people in different ways.
You could experience a wide range of symptoms. And permanent hearing loss is sometimes one of them. Scientists still aren’t sure why that happens. The virus might be creating a response called “cellular stress”. Certain cells (such as the cells in your ear) will begin to breakdown, according to this theory, because the virus places so much strain on the body. But this form of hearing loss might also be a result of your body’s own immune response. On occasion, your immune system can go into high gear and ends up causing significant damage to your body.
It’s also worth mentioning that occasionally this hearing loss can first present when other COVID symptoms are on their way out. The exact timing isn’t really known. We also have no clue why it’s more or less likely to happen.
Is There Any Treatment For This Sort of Hearing Loss?
Sensorineural hearing loss from COVID-19 can certainly be permanent. There might be a few treatment possibilities depending on specific variables. As a matter of fact, researchers have already recognized that steroid treatments appear to help preserve your hearing, especially if you get early treatment. It’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible if you experience sudden hearing loss.
Having a hearing exam after your COVID has passed is always a smart idea.
But it’s worth mentioning that there are a couple of qualifiers to all of this. Hearing loss, first off, isn’t a very common COVID symptom. We don’t know yet how widespread this particular symptom is at this point. But as scientists discover more about COVID-19 the science will change.
Can You Avoid COVID-Related Hearing Loss?
If you have sudden changes in your hearing and you have COVID-19 get in touch with your doctor and make an appointment for a hearing exam with us. An early response might help decrease lasting hearing loss.
Try to avoid getting sick: The best way to prevent COVID-related hearing loss is to do everything possible to avoid contracting COVID in the first place. This means following guidelines in regards to social gatherings, physical distancing, and wearing a mask.
This symptom does happen though it’s rare. And you will be a lot better off with more insight about hearing loss and COIVID. It’s a good choice to come in for an evaluation if you think you have suffered hearing damage.