Can You Be Re-Hospitalized for Sudden Hearing Loss Treatment?

Can a patient be hospitalized again after 10 days of treatment for sudden hearing loss?

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss occurred about 10 days ago.
Steroid treatment was started on the third day and continued for 5 days, with one day off medication.
Before treatment, the left ear had a hearing level of 88 decibels.
After 5 days of medication, a hearing test showed a 10% improvement, and the doctor has now started intratympanic steroid injections.

I have two questions for the doctor:
1.
Given that I cannot fully rest at home while taking care of my family and children, is it possible for me to be hospitalized for better care?
2.
On the second day after the intratympanic injection, I noticed that my earwax is a deep red color, and I experience pain in my ear when I burp.
Is this normal? Thank you!

Fang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/05

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

A week is the golden treatment period.
If the patient is relatively young, aggressive treatment should still be considered, such as intratympanic injections, similar to getting a shot.
Some slight bleeding is normal, so it's important to rest well! Wishing you safety and health.

Reply Date: 2021/05/05

More Info

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) can be a distressing condition, and your concerns about treatment and recovery are valid. Let's address your questions regarding the possibility of re-hospitalization for treatment and the symptoms you're experiencing.

1. Re-Hospitalization for Treatment: Yes, it is possible to be re-hospitalized for the treatment of sudden hearing loss, especially if your current home care is not conducive to recovery. Hospitalization can provide a controlled environment where you can receive more intensive treatment, including intravenous medications, close monitoring, and possibly additional therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy. If you feel that your home environment is too stressful or if you are unable to rest adequately due to family responsibilities, discussing the option of hospitalization with your healthcare provider is advisable. They can assess your condition and determine if a short-term stay in the hospital would be beneficial for your recovery.

2. Symptoms After Ear Injection: Experiencing deep red earwax and pain in the ear when burping after an ear injection can be concerning. The presence of red earwax may indicate some bleeding or irritation in the ear canal, which could be a result of the injection procedure. It is not uncommon to experience some discomfort or pressure changes in the ear after such treatments. However, if the pain is significant or if you notice any other alarming symptoms (such as increased hearing loss, dizziness, or discharge), it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can evaluate whether these symptoms are a normal part of the healing process or if they indicate a complication that needs to be addressed.

Additional Considerations
Sudden hearing loss is often treated with corticosteroids, which you are already receiving. The goal of this treatment is to reduce inflammation and potentially restore hearing. The fact that you have seen a 10% improvement after five days of treatment is a positive sign, but it is essential to continue monitoring your progress. The injection of steroids directly into the ear can sometimes provide additional benefits, especially if oral medications alone are insufficient.

In terms of managing your symptoms at home, consider the following:
- Rest: While it may be challenging to find time to rest, try to prioritize sleep and relaxation whenever possible. Stress can exacerbate symptoms and hinder recovery.

- Avoid Loud Noises: Protect your ears from loud environments, as this can further damage your hearing.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure you attend all follow-up appointments with your ENT specialist to monitor your hearing and adjust treatment as necessary.

- Support System: If possible, enlist help from family or friends to manage household responsibilities, allowing you more time to focus on your recovery.

Conclusion
In summary, re-hospitalization for sudden hearing loss treatment is a viable option if home care is inadequate. Your symptoms following the ear injection should be monitored closely, and any significant discomfort should be reported to your healthcare provider. Remember, recovery from sudden hearing loss can vary widely among individuals, and ongoing communication with your medical team is crucial for the best possible outcome.

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