My sudden hearing loss story | Simon Hill, Msc

What would you do if you suddenly couldn’t hear out of one ear? That’s exactly what happened to me, and in this episode I share my journey through sudden sensorineural hearing loss. From the initial shock of waking up completely deaf in one ear, to the science of diagnosis, treatments, and recovery, I take you step by step through what unfolded.

This is one of the most personal and detailed episodes I’ve ever recorded, blending my lived experience with the best available evidence. Whether you’ve dealt with hearing issues yourself, know someone who has, or simply want to understand this under-discussed condition, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of how fragile — and resilient — our hearing can be.

What I Cover

  • The frightening onset of sudden sensorineural hearing loss
  • How ENTs diagnose hearing loss and the role of audiograms and MRI
  • Evidence behind oral steroids, intratympanic injections, and antivirals
  • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy and other complementary treatments
  • The emotional toll of sudden hearing loss and how to cope
  • Signs of recovery and the importance of acting fast
  • Key takeaways for anyone who may face this emergency

This experience reminded me of the true value of health, and why caring for it is both a responsibility and a privilege.

  • What Happened When I Lost Hearing in One Ear? (00:00)
  • How Is Sudden Hearing Loss Diagnosed? (09:19)
  • What Causes Sudden Hearing Loss? (14:50)
  • Sudden Hearing Loss Treatment Protocol Explained (21:06)
  • Do Hyperbaric Oxygen & Lifestyle Help? (25:35)
  • How Fast Can Hearing Return? (30:06)
  • Key Lessons for Recovery (38:52)

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Resources

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss – my treatment journey

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