Social Problems in Patients with Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

A relatively high incidence of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) has recently been reported. The causes and pathogenesis of this condition are still unclear, and an effective treatment has not been found. The hearing loss is permanent in about 60% of patients. Consequently, the number of cases with permanent hearing loss increases each year. This review is focused on the social problems of patients with ISSHL. The results of a multicenter nationwide clinical study in Japan showed that patients with ISSHL suffer from several symptoms, and from deterioration of their quality of life. More attention should be paid to addressing these problems in patients with ISSHL.