When to Seek Medical Care

If you cannot determine the cause of your hearing loss, see a doctor. Other symptoms that require a trip to the doctor include the following:

• You have associated symptoms such as ringing in the ears or vertigo.

• You have a fever or pain.

• You are taking any medications that affect hearing.

• Your hearing loss is sudden and prolonged.

Do not delay getting medical attention if your hearing loss is associated with any of the following:

• Recent or present foreign body in the ear

• Fluid or blood coming from the ear

• Recent pressure changes (diving)

• Fever not controlled with acetaminophen (Tylenol)

• Severe trauma to the head