"Sudden sensorineural hearing loss"

I had sudden sensorineural hearing loss, waking up one morning with a complete loss of hearing in one ear.

I have nothing but praise for the care I received from the GP and the ENT service.

I called NHS 24 initially, as it was a Sunday, and after questioning their advice was to call my GP if it got no better. This is the only concern I have, as there seemed to be no urgency advising me to seek attention, as I now know that getting treatment early is very important.

The next day I called my GP and had a phone consultation and an emergency appointment the same day, with the GP taking the time to consult directly with ENT. ENT then called me back the next day and I was put on immediate steroid treatment. I then had an audiology appointment that week and started on my intratympanic injections the next week.

I have now had three injections between two hospitals and another hearing test, showing a dramatic improvement in my hearing.

The rapid access to the service and the prompt appointments have been fantastic. The care has been exemplary and I have been impressed throughout with the ENT and audiology services.