A Musician’s Experience with Sudden Hearing Loss

On May 19, 2026, Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) affected my left ear.
 
I initially thought it was a temporary ear infection and did not make a big deal. But I went to ENT (ear, nose, throat) urgent care two days later, and they took it very seriously.
 
I was immediately put on steroids. But 2 weeks later the hearing didn’t improve, so I received 3 injections into the ear. That may have resulted in slight improvements.
 
But 2+ months later the condition very much remains. My left ear has 30+DB of hearing loss in mid to upper frequencies, and I have moderate tinnitus.
 
I am able to resume my music activities. But with less hearing of mid to upper frequencies in one ear:
  • I don’t have as good note definition
  • it’s harder to detect intonation
  • sound localization (figuring out where sound is coming from) is also affected
 
So while I can function, it affects my confidence. It takes a bigger leap of faith to play or sing with authority and presence.
 
I still hold on to hope that I’ll make full recovery. But I wanted to share my experience mid-story so that I can convey what it’s like. And help others be aware of what to do in the rare event that something like this happens to you. (go seek a specialist immediately)
Ari's Diary   / /