Medication and Sudden Changes in Hearing

Recently I've seen a few patients that have experienced a sudden change in their hearing. There can be a number reasons that cause such a change. There could be cerumen (ear wax) in your ear canals or in the sound port of your hearing aids. If your hearing aids are functioning properly, consider any recent medical issues or changes in medication. Most recently I had a patient who was tested and fit with a new hearing aid, and during the next several was in and out of the hospital four times for various issues. After heavy doses of antibiotics her medical issues began to heal but her hearing got worse. After re-testing we measured an additional 15-25db decrease in hearing and we had to change her hearing aid to a more powerful model to meet her requirements. Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of your medication with regards to hearing.