Sudden complete hearing loss, often referred to as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), is a rapid and unexpected loss of hearing that typically occurs in one ear and develops over hours or days without an identifiable cause. This condition can be alarming and may be accompanied by symptoms such as tinnitus, a feeling of fullness in the ear, or dizziness.
At Charlottesville Hyperbarics, we provide hospital-grade hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in a calm, non-hospital setting as a supportive, adjunctive option for individuals who have experienced sudden hearing loss and are seeking additional therapeutic care under medical supervision.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber. Under these conditions, oxygen is delivered more efficiently throughout the body, including to tissues with limited blood supply.
For sudden hearing loss, HBOT may be used as an adjunct to standard medical care with the goal of:
A hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) session at Charlottesville Hyperbarics is structured, supportive, and medically supervised, with a focus on comfort and safety throughout the process. Before your first session, our team reviews your medical history, current symptoms, and any prior evaluations or referrals related to your hearing concerns. You’ll also receive a clear explanation of the therapy, safety guidelines, and the sensations you can expect during pressurization.
During treatment, you will relax inside a medical-grade hyperbaric chamber while breathing 100% oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure. As the chamber gradually pressurizes, you may notice a temporary feeling of fullness in your ears—similar to changes in altitude—which our certified technicians help you manage using gentle equalization techniques. Each session typically lasts about 60–90 minutes. Throughout the treatment, trained hyperbaric technicians continuously monitor you and remain available to address questions or concerns.
If you are exploring supportive care options for hearing loss, the team at Charlottesville Hyperbarics is here to help. Our staff will take time to understand your hearing concerns, review your medical background, and explain how Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy may be used as part of a supportive care plan.
We focus on clear communication, individualized attention, and medically supervised care in a comfortable setting. Whether you are dealing with sudden hearing changes or ongoing hearing challenges, our team can guide you through the next steps and answer your questions with clarity.
