Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), also known as sudden deafness, is considered a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. In some cases, an underlying cause such as an infection can be identified and addressed. When no clear cause is found, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) combined with steroids may be recommended to help prevent permanent hearing loss.
HBOT involves sitting or lying in a hard-shell chamber where air pressure is increased to deliver 100% oxygen. This process increases the amount of oxygen reaching bodily tissues, including the inner ear. The therapy aims to reduce swelling and help fight severe infections, scarring, nerve damage, and fluid buildup.
Treatment usually takes place at an accredited medical facility over multiple sessions. Each session typically lasts about 90 minutes per day, with patients often needing between 10 and 20 daily treatments. If there is no improvement within the first ten days, doctors may advise stopping the therapy.
Research shows that HBOT can restore hearing in a significant number of people with SSHL, especially when started within two weeks of onset. According to Frank L. Ross, MD, FACS, associate director of the Helen & Martin Kimmel Hyperbaric and Advanced Wound Healing Center at NYU-Langone Health system in New York: "I tell my patients that speed is key. Getting treated close to the start of hearing loss can make a big difference." He adds: "From our research, we find that around a third of patients will have some level of response. On average, some people get all of their hearing back. Around 30% will get 30-50 decibels back.”
Steroids may also be given orally or injected into the ear before, during, or after HBOT treatment to reduce inflammation.
While HBOT has been cleared by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for 14 conditions—including sudden hearing loss—it does carry some risks. Severe complications like lung collapse are rare according to the FDA [FDA Consumer Update]. Temporary side effects may include sinus pain, ear pain, middle-ear injury, or vision changes.
To minimize risk, experts recommend only using hospitals or facilities accredited by organizations such as the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society [UHMS Guidelines]. Unregulated clinics—such as spas or storefront operations—should be avoided due to potential safety hazards.
Certain individuals should not undergo HBOT; it may be contraindicated for those with severe congestive heart failure or severe reactive airway disease.
The cost of HBOT varies based on location and insurance coverage but generally runs about $300 per session without insurance; up to 20 sessions may be required per patient’s needs [JAMA Otolaryngology Study]. Many private health insurance plans cover HBOT for approved indications; those with flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA) can often use these funds for payment.
Despite being available for more than five decades [PubMed Study], there are approximately 1,300 clinics and hospitals offering HBOT across the United States—not every state has an accredited provider capable of treating sudden deafness specifically.
If you experience sudden hearing loss—even if you suspect it might have a simple explanation—it is important to seek medical attention immediately since this symptom could indicate serious underlying conditions such as stroke [Hearing Loss Association Information].
According to Dr. Ross: “People with claustrophobia may find HBOT easier to tolerate if they take Benadryl beforehand. They can also get a prescription for an anti-anxiety medication like valium from their primary care physician.”
For those interested in finding treatment centers near them, resources such as interactive maps published by professional societies are available online.
