Sudden loss of hearing over hours to days, particularly in one ear, should not be put down to wax or a blocked ear without examination. Established practice is to examine the ear, test hearing promptly with a tuning fork and then an audiogram, and to arrange urgent ENT assessment, because early treatment gives the best chance of recovery.
Ask about associated symptoms such as vertigo, facial weakness or neurological signs, and about recent drugs or trauma.
- Examine the ear canal and eardrum first to exclude wax and middle ear disease.
- Arrange an audiogram promptly and refer to ENT without waiting for review.
- Ask about vertigo, facial weakness and neurological symptoms.
- Document the time of onset, since treatment timing matters.
Why it matters
Recovery chances fall with delay, and time is lost when it is mistaken for a blocked ear.
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