Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is commonly encountered in audiologic and otolaryngologic practice. SSNHL is most commonly defined as sensorineural hearing loss of 30dB or greater over at least three contiguous audiometric frequencies occurring within a 72–hr period¹. Sudden hearing loss can be frightening and frustrating for the patient and his or her physician.

                Approximately 15,000 new cases of sudden hearing loss (SHL) occur annually worldwide. Although prevalence studies do not necessarily distinguish between idiopathic and acquired SHL, most cases of spontaneous SHL have no identifiable cause².

Factors impacting hearing recovery include age of onset,severity of hearing loss, presence of vertigo, and time between onset of hearing loss and visit with the treating physician. The present study is focused on various causes of SSNHL and outcome after treatment with steroids.