One of the most uncommon symptoms of COVID-19 is that it’s able to temporarily deaden your senses of taste and smell. Indeed, loss of smell is often one of the initial indications of infection. But COVID-19 affects more than just your sense of taste and smell. Sensorineural hearing loss is an unusual and lasting problem according to new findings.
How is Hearing Loss Caused by COVID-19?
Every day scientists are discovering more about COVID-19. But there’s still a great deal we don’t know. The virus itself was only first discovered in late 2019. Usually, scientists work for years, even decades, to thoroughly identify a new pathogen. And COVIC-19 can be especially difficult because it impacts different individuals in different ways.
You might experience a wide variety of symptoms. And permanent hearing loss can be one of them. Why this happens is still unknown. The virus could be creating a reaction known as “cellular stress”. Certain cells (like the cells in your ear) will start to breakdown, according to this theory, because the virus places so much stress on the body. But your body’s own immune response may also be responsible for this kind of hearing loss. Significant damage can be done to your body when your immune system goes into overdrive.
Also, when other COVID symptoms are going away, this hearing loss can still become apparent. The exact timing isn’t really understood. We also have no clue why it’s more or less likely to occur.
Is There Any Treatment For This Kind of Hearing Loss?
Permanent sensorineural hearing loss is possible as a result of COVID-19. There may be a few treatment options depending on certain variables. It’s already been observed that early steroid treatments appear to help protect your hearing from added damage. It’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible if you experience sudden loss of hearing.
Getting a hearing test after your COVID has passed is always a smart idea.
But it’s worth pointing out that there are a few qualifiers to all of this. Hearing loss, first off, is not a very common COVID symptom. Right now, we’re not certain how common this symptom is. But as scientists learn more about COVID-19 the science will adjust.
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 schedule a hearing exam with us. Lasting hearing loss can be decreased by quick response.
Try to stay healthy: The best way to prevent COVID-related hearing loss is to do whatever you can to avoid contracting COVID in the first place. This means sticking with guidelines when it comes to social gatherings, physical distancing, and wearing a mask.
While this particular symptom is uncommon, it still occurs. And the more information you have about COVID and hearing loss, the better. It’s a good choice to come in for an evaluation if you think you’ve suffered hearing damage.