SSNL is a sudden,
unexplained loss of hearing that typically happens in one ear. It can happen
all at once or over the course of a few days.
Osteoporosis,
which means ‘porous bones’, happens when bones lose density and mass at a rate
of 3-4% per year. Small-boned women of European and Asian heritage past the age
of menopause are particularly vulnerable, although men can have osteoporosis
too. When bones become brittle because of osteoporosis, they break very
easily. A simple fall, bending over or even coughing can be enough to break a
bone if a person suffers from osteoporosis.
It’s not immediately clear why SSNL is more common among people with
osteoporosis, but a recent study conducted in Taiwan found a 1.76-fold
increase in the incidence of SSNL for patients with osteoporosis compared to a
control group. And patients with more severe osteoporosis appeared to have a
higher risk of hearing loss than those with milder osteoporosis.
It is difficult to
say by there is a link between sudden hearing loss and osteoporosis however
inflammation, bone demineralisation, and cardiovascular risk factors may all be
contributing factors.
If you have been
diagnosed with osteoporosis please do ensure that you book to have a hearing
assessment. At least this way we can obtain a bench mark set of results for us
to compare to over time. This takes no more than 30 minutes and provides us
with a large amount of relevant information to assist in advising an action
plan. In fact lots of my work is about educating the people of Suffolk and
Norfolk to take proactive steps with their hearing!
It is worth noting that around 85% of the people who are treated for SSRL
recover at least some of their hearing, but early treatment is key, as urgent
medical treatment for SSRL is vital.
Make
sure you keep your hearing ability high on your agenda in the same way you do
your eyes and your teeth, regular checks are necessary for all ages.
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