Hearing loss after cold - how long to wait before retunring to the GP

[SutWytTi]

Hi, I am not sure how concerned to be about hearing loss after a cold/flu (it was a pretty full-on virus) - does it often take a long time to go back to normal?

There was some mild ear pain but nothing like when I used to have an ear infection as a child, I don't think it was a burst ear drum or anything.

Is there anything that can be done, or is it just a case of waiting? The GP said to wait when I spoke to them - am wondering when to go back.

Bumping in hope!

Have you tried taking a decongestant for a few days?

Also, book a hearing test at boots, specsavers etc. they're experts and can check the health of your ears and advise and / or reassure you
Some can refer you if necessary too

9/10, it'll come back in a week or 2

I would wait 4-6 weeks if it is painless.

Thank you both - I'm worried about waiting as long as 4-6 weeks, but that is interesting you would not be concerned for so long@yikesanotherbooboo

@Tilllly not tried one yet as GP was sceptical!

Well, it won't hurt

Booking a hearing test is a great idea and they can refer you forward if they feel their need.

if you have health insurance, check your policy as it may be covered.

I would do lots of sniffing of steam/ olbas oil etc and lots of vigorous swallowing but also give it a chance.

I lost the hearing in one ear for 6 months, then a few weeks after it came back I lost hearing in the other ear. I would suggest getting some drops in case your ear is blocked.

Thanks all.
I find the fact the GP is so unavailable makes me want to time my escalation - you have to know when you're going to need them! Sounds like I should leave it for a bit yet.

I had exactly this issue a few months ago. I ended up down a rabbit hole of wondering whether the timing was coincidental and actually it was a weird perimenopause symptom.

I ended up going to a hearing centre that does ear syringing / hearing aids and whatnot. She checked me out and looked in my ears and basically said she thought I had sinus fluid build up in my inner ear.

She suggested the old fashioned bowl of warm water with Vicks/Olbas oil and a towel over my head three times a day for a week to shift it. Literally the first time I did it, it cleared partially and by day three it was totally done. Worth trying if you haven't already.

Thanks @FrogSplash - will start a steaming regime

Maybe another early step is a hearing test for some reassurance.