Photo from Pexels
Sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss — sometimes referred to as sudden deafness — occurs in anywhere from 11 to 77 per 100,000 people per year in the U.S.
There have been a handful of case reports of COVID-19 patients having such hearing loss, including a report in BMJ. But as more COVID-19 vaccines become available, there are a small but growing number of reports of vaccinated individuals reporting sudden hearing loss — 14 reports among nearly 31,000 entries (or 0.05%) in the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System.
A Phase 1 clinical trial for Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine included a 21-year-old who experienced sudden hearing loss 34 days after vaccination. Neither the investigator nor Johnson & Johnson concluded that the event was linked to the vaccine.
[Related: Tinnitus reports grow amid COVID-19 vaccinations]
Several recipients of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have experienced sudden hearing loss, according to data from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System.
To date, however, there is no clear evidence that COVID-19 elevates the risk of the condition. “I have not seen any formal report on this topic,” said Dr. Steven D. Rauch, vice chair for clinical research in Harvard Medical School’s department of otolaryngology.
“My colleagues and I at Mass. Eye and Ear certainly are seeing sudden SNHL during this time period, but we always see SSNHL, so it is impossible to discern anecdotally if there is any change in this incidence,” Rauch said.
It is plausible, however, that COVID-19 vaccines may be escalating symptoms for patients with a history of ear problems.
Rauch suspects that there may have been an uptick in post-vaccine hearing loss symptoms among people with pre-existing inner ear disease — such as Meniere’s disease, autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) and vestibular migraine — especially after the second dose. Though, he cautioned that his view is anecdotal.
Said Rauch: “These effects seem to occur within the first two weeks post-injection and sometimes within just a few days. They appear to be temporary. The actual likelihood of this phenomenon and its clinical course are not well-defined — it’s just too soon to know.”
Filed Under: Infectious Disease
My husband had the moderna vaccine and got tinnitus about a week after first vaccine. He has never had this before. He still has tinnitus 7 weeks later
I had my 2nd shot of Pfizer and same thing. Never had it before. Going on 3 weeks.
Same here. I got Pfizer in beginning of February, and two days later got ringing in my ears. I still have it and went to ENT. No hearing loss, healthy ear drums, no reason for ringing. Worried it’s going to be permanent.
Hi Jessica- Can you tell us the difference between your first and second shots in terms of reactions? Thanks so much.
Six weeks here. Hoping it goes away.
I received the 2nd dose of Moderna vaccine on 1/27/21 and developed sudden bilateral tinnitus on 2/16/21. I’m a healthy 31 year old male with no underlying conditions.
I’m so nervous now. Due for 2nd dose of Pfizer next week 🙁
Please let us know what happens. Thanks, and good luck!
I received the first Moderna vaccine a few weeks ago and I’ve had a persistent ringing in my ear since. I’ve visited both an ENT and Audiologist and the Audiologist mentioned that there have been several reported cases of people getting tinnitus after they receive either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine. She went as far as advising me not to get my second dose of Moderna and after reading all of the issues in this forum I have decided not to. My friend sent me a link to report any side effects after receiving the vaccine and I encourage you all to report this in hopes of this issue getting the recognition it deserves and possibly sparing others from experiencing this problem. Here is the link –> https://vaers.hhs.gov/
Hi Karen, can i check whether you have seen any doctor regarding your problem? And has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
Regards,
Kayla
I just wanted to clarify my message. My husband took the second dose of the pfizer vaccine and after one week lost his hearing in one ear will this be temporary he does wear hearing aids.
I received the second Pfizer injection three days after that injection I started having Ringing in my ears and it’s not going away it’s just there and it’s very annoying I never had this problem before didn’t have a hearing problem didn’t have any previous health issues with hearing and not sure if this is going away or what’s happening?
This is Tuesday. I got a Covid vaccination this past Saturday. I awoke today with my ears stopped up and ringing in my ears. I cannot stand to even hear my dog bark. I am really frightened.
Have you talked to the Doctor? What do they have to say?
Which vaccine did you get?
Interesting, I had the moderna dose one and two days later, I wake up and feel like I have water in my ears. I took a hot shower, it did not get ANY better. Got to thinking about it and realized that it was odd that both ears had this problem and tinnitus at the same time. Typed in Moderna vaccine and hearing loss and and wound up here. . ..
How telling. .
And I had just told some people it was probably safe at this point.
2 days after 2nd Pfizer vaccine shot in left arm, I developed ringing in left ear. Also had swollen lymph node under arm on same side. I hope it stops soon!
I received my second Moderna dose 3 days ago and got fever, chills, body ache etc. that all wentaway but now I have tinnitus.
We are healthcare workers, my husband lost complete hearing on one side and has severe vertigo with in 12 hrs of COVID vax , he’s still the same a week later, so far all tests are negative for anything else
Which vaccine did he get? I have just lost all my hearing in one ear as well, but haven’t had the vaccine yet. I’m trying to figure out if one of them is safer for the one ear I’ve got left. Also if you can find it, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has helped bring back some of mine.
My husband only had one hearing ear. He got his second shot of Moderna the 13th of February. The 19 th of March he lost hearing in the other ear. So he is totally deaf. We had not seen anything about this, until I started researching.
MaryLou, I’m so sorry for your husband and you.
Hi Marie, can i check whether you have seen any doctor regarding your problem? And has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
Tinnitis started 12 hour post Pfizer vaccine. Again after the second vaccine and now it’s intermittent. I have always had very keen hearing and the ringing is very difficult. Fortunately, it is not constant!
I experienced the same after the second Pfizer shot. I am an otherwise healthy, 50 year-old ICU physician and had only mild, rare tinnitus prior. I am now approaching 3 months of significantly worse and persistent tinnitus since. I was never sick, never had COVID, don’t have any other medical issues that would explain or contribute to this problem.
All of these experiences need to be reported through the Department of Health and Human Services’ Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System:
https://vaers.hhs.gov/reportevent.html
Hello JR – Like you, I had tolerable tinnitus before my Moderna vaccine – it was constant, but I could ignore it for chunks of my day. I had my first Moderna shot on March 31 in the morning, and by the time I went to bed that night, the ringing was intense, at least twice as loud as I have ever experienced it. I told my husband I could barely sleep on account of it. This ringing has continued non-stop, and I am aware of it every minute of the day. It is very distressing as it is a huge quality of life issue, and even more upsetting concerning whether I get the second shot or not. The bit of hope I had for post-vaccine freedom is now gone. I did report to VAERS.
I have tinnitus from the military. I had to have the tv set to 25 to mask the ringing. When it was quiet i trained my brain to hear “crickets” instead of that ringing.
I received the Moderna vaccine and after the second shot the ringing has increased about 10 fold. It has been extremely loud for about six weeks now. It is mentally draining.
Sorry to hear this.
Was there any increase after the first shot?
I have a hissing after the first Moderna shot.
I got my first Moderna vax 2 weeks ago and yesterday had my second time experiencing L ear hearing loss and extreme tinnitus. I have had tinnitus for 40 years but this is much louder and intense and the hearing loss lasted about 6 hours with some echoing on and off. I went to my ENT Doc and got complete check for fluids in the ear cannal but nothing. He said it was nurelogical, nerve induced event so no good explaination. Gave me a steroid script to use if it happens again and orders to get back in for another check up.
Hi John, can i check if your hearing problem is solved? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
I, too, at 67 (and just got Moderna vaxes) now have loud, persistent tinnitus and it’s driving me nuts!
Just some interesting events today. I decided to take one commenter suggestion and drink loads of fluids today,water, Gatorade, etc. I took a decongestant, not antihistamines. I steamed my face 3 times and took a steam shower this evening. My nose started to run and run most of the afternoon and this evening I’ve noticed the humming in my ears is greatly reduced, not gone but much better. I have also taken magnesium tablet and 50 MG of zinc. I don’t know but I’m better after 5 weeks since my first shot and 2 weeks after my second. I have a hunch that like covid which seems to affect your weak areas perhaps the vaccines ramp up the immune response in the area of weakness. Mine is my sinus and ear canals due to allergies. I’m going to continue this process as it does seem to help me.
Thanks for this!!
Have a history of severe allergies, sinus surgery, and eustachian tube dysfunction. Got Pfizer shots. Moderate body aches with first shot, but stopped up right ear (site of sinus surgery) with 2nd shot. Hearing is reduced but no pain yet. We’ll see. Thanks for the info.
Thanks so much! I’m going to try this as I have terrible seasonal allergies, which gives congestion and clogged ears frequently. Hoping this helps with my ringing I’ve had for 6+ weeks!! 🙂
Sorry to hear this.
Was there any increase after the first shot?
I have a hissing after the first Moderna shot.
My partner had the astra vaccine and developed cold chills and hot spells, next morning she had tinnitus and that was 3 months ago and still constant
24 hrs after getting my 1st Pfizer vaccine I developed ringing in both ears, with slightly more in my left ear. I never had Tinnitus before. It’s been 13 days since it started and no change. I’d characterize it as an annoyance, but I can hear it all the time. I got a negative PCR test, so its not related to a COVID infection. Right now I can’t see getting the second Pfizer which is due in about one week – seems like too much downside in making the Tinnitus worse and COVID protection from a single dose Pfizer is pretty good. I have no other comorbidities. All this reported via the vaccine adverse event reporting system. Seeing the ENT today…
Tim, I echo your experience and your thinking 100%. I cannot take a chance of making my new post-vaccine #1 tinnitus any worse with vaccine #2.
Two days after receiving my 1st shot of the Pfizer vaccine I developed tinnitus and very stuffy ears. I have gotten ringing in my ears occasionally in the past, but it goes away quickly. This has been sustained and still present on day 3 after the 1st shot with continued stuffiness in the ears like a head cold.
Hey Jeff, mine started that way too, very stuffed up ear, felt like it was full of fluid but it didn’t hurt and it wasn’t an infection. Not treatable with antibiotics drops. Tried two different steroidal sprays and two different rinses, doing an an anti-inflammatory diet, seeing an osteopath for my head, doing all kinds of things and it does feel like less pressure now but the tinnitus and that feeling of stuffy ear/weight in the ear hasn’t gone away. It’s been more than three months now. That was after my first shot of Moderna. Has your improved since March?
BS…Yes, I believe there is a link between Pfizer Covid19 vaccine and tinnitus. I’ve had mild tinnitus for several years where I had mild hissing in both ears but I was able to ignore it during the day. Within a few hours after getting my 1st Pfizer vaccine, the tinnitus has gotten much much worse where it keeps me awake at night worrying what’s happening. I can now hear the ringing present over every day noises, TV, music etc. It’s to the point where I hear my pulse in my ears constantly. Although, Pfizer says there’s no link, I disagree due to the growing number of people reporting the correlation between the vaccine and the increase in tinnitus. I’m seriously considering not getting the second dose due to this and other symptoms (headaches) which I’ve never had headaches like this until I took the Pfizer vaccine.
I have had severe meniere’s disease 20 years ago and eventually lost complete hearing in one ear. Had ringing in my ears for years, but presently do not have that horrible noise anymore, but am due to take the Pfizer vaccine in a week and I am 75 and afraid it will trigger New symptoms of dizziness and loss of hearing. Is it wise to avoid not accepting the vaccination at this point in my life while the whole world is suggesting it is the end to this pandemic?
I was starting to think I was crazy! I developed this 24 hours after my second Moderna vaccine. My right ear has incredible pressure, like it needs to pop, but won’t. Hoping and praying this goes away soon. I did report under VAERS, at my doctor’s urging.
I had the Astra Zeneca 1st dose 3.5 days ago and have woken up this morning with a dull marginalised ache at the left/back of my head and my left ear also feeling like it needs to pop. I’ve had no other symptoms and have very good health so this is a concern.
Hi Lisa, Same here. I received my 1st Moderna in January as I’m a Nurse. Within a week I developed a stuffiness in both ears, otherwise I was fine. On Feb 9 I received 2nd shot. Developed fever 104 and chills for 1 night only. Ears continued to get worse with Right ear completely blocked. This lasted for months getting worse and worse. Prescribed ear drops, no help. Eventually ear drum ruptured, ENT stated I may need a repair as the hole was quite large. More meds, drops, etc. These all just made me sicker! Eventually, here I am 5 mo and 1 week later and finally feeling much better. I do not think I lost hearing but never had the hearing test done. My right ear although feeling better still is not 100% and when lying flat feels a tiny bit like there is water in it or something. I do not allow water near my ears at all, no swimming this year and extremely careful in shower. I do believe this is from vaccine, and now I’m hearing we need a booster shot3
HI Julianne, I hope you’ve had more improvement since. I took the first shot of Moderna, had an anaphylactic reaction on site, but afterwards had no harsh side effects other than facial numbing in certain parts of my face for about a week…typing that I guess that does sound harsh but I didn’t feel sick perse. 10 days later took my standard allergy shot and had a similar anaphylactic reaction to what is normally a completely benign shot. Then more than a month passed and suddenly I had this clogged ear feeling, like it was full of fluid. As you did, tried antibiotic drops, (even though the doctor said it didn’t look like an infection) have tried four different steroidal medications for sinus’, did nothing, am doing an anti-inflammatory diet and seeing other practitioners…it’s been over three months now with tiny tiny bits of improvement but still a feeling of blocked up ear and tinnitus. Since I had this reaction I have delayed any second shot because I don’t want this situation to get worse, and I”m worried about that. However that leaves me without a vaccine passport which is stressful. My allergist suggested to take AZ as a second dose but it sounds like AZ is producing these same types of effects on people, so I don’t know. Has yours improved?
I had Johnson and Johnson Covid vaccine in my right arm on 3/20/2021 at 3:30 pm. I woke up next morning at 7:30 am unable to hear anything out of my R ear. Unable to access medical because it was Sunday. Spoke to primary MD on Monday morning, who recommended audiology eval ASAP, and he’d try to get me ENT appointment ASAP. Audiology eval found more to profound hearing loss R ear. ENT appointment scheduled for 3/25. Saw ENT today, and I am 5th hearing loss related to Covid vaccine he has seen. Said info is being shared amongst ENTs. Gave me prescription for Prednisone. Most hearing loss seems to reverse with corticosteroids….fingers crossed. Will have another hearing test in one week. Filed report with VAERS….as should all of you!
Mary: Thank you for this detailed report. I’m especially impressed that your ENT said you were the 5th person he had seen with hearing loss associated with the vaccine. 🙁
Second dose of Pfizer on March 9th. Within three minutes of receiving the shot, I was like, “My ears are ringing.” Two weeks and three days later, still ringing away.
I have no history of tinnitus, although at 59, I have noticed some difficulty hearing when there is a lot of background noise. Within a day or so of receiving the my first Moderna vac (1/27) tinnitus started. It was mild but increased somewhat after my second dose. I still have it and feel it may be getting slightly worse. I did report as an adverse reaction. Have not been to see any specialist. My GP checked with an Infectious Disease doctor and he said it was starting to be reported as a vaccine side effect (1/6,000) and it was in the para – something group (the same group as loss of taste and smell). He felt it would resolve itself since most of those who lost their sense of taste and smell from the virus got it back.
Had second shot of Moderna vaccine two days ago and ears have constant hum. Very annoying
Like others here, I had 2nd Pfizer shot on Feb 20 and during the last month, I have experienced an increase of a cicada sounding tinnitus in mostly the right side. I am now losing sleep due to this condition. Have had some in the past but not bad enough to really notice or interfere with sleep. I am 73.
I am 59 and had my first dose of the Moderna vaccine 2 weeks ago. As I was driving out of the parking garage after getting the vaccine, I noticed the ringing in my ears (tinnitus). I still have it, it hasn’t stopped, and it is very distressing to me, especially to consider the prospect that it may be permanent. Everyone who reads these comments – consider that most of the people are coming to this page and leaving these comments because they did an internet search seeking a possible explanation for new tinnitus symptoms. Seems pretty evident there is a clear connection. This is real. I did report this to VAERS and urge everyone who experiences these symptoms to do the same. Now I’m thinking I won’t get the second dose for fear of it becoming worse.
Second dose of Moderna on March 19. Next day fever under 100 and fatigue. Intermittent hissing in both ears. Since yesterday hissing has become permanent and feels in the whole head.
58 yo female. I got Pfizer shot #1 on 3/3 in left arm. On 3/8 I experienced tinnitus ( as loud buzzing) in my left ear. It has been intermittent since that time, but sometimes so loud that I couldn’t fall asleep. I completed an AE report with Pfizer and I called my PCP for advisement about taking shot #2 ( scheduled for 3/30). PCP said it is likely “coincidental” and I should go ahead with vaccine #2. However, I am concerned enough that I think I will delay it for now. I hope this goes away.
I’m a 48 yo male healthy, did not have Covid. I received one does of Moderna on March 21st, about six days ago. I have noticed somewhat persistent low grade tinnitus on several occasions, including now as I write this. Up until I got the vaccine, I have had very mild tinnitus on rare occasions, and it has been very temporary — which I understand is quite normal. Now I’m reconsidering whether or not I should get the second shot. Next step will be reporting my symptom as a possible side effect.
My ears are driving me nuts with the ringing. The other night I thought there was a tea kettle in my head. Moderna vaccine recipient. Auditory issues after first shot, and still ringing after second. I hope it plays a different tune here soon.
I took 3 days ago moderna vaccine. Yesterday in the morning I experienced tinnitus in the left ear and in afternoon I lost completely the hearing from left ear. Im 45 years old, healthy, never have any health issue. I’m worried this could be permanent 😔
Lost all hearing in left ear after my Moderna shot on Jan 8th. Gone through all the sudden hearing loss medical procedures, including direct injection of prednisone into the ear. My ENT believes it is unlikely that it will ever return. I also have read that prednisone could reduce the effectiveness of the Vaccine!
Can anyone tell me if that is true? I hope and prey that your hearing returns. I’m 75 but never had any ear problems before. Got fitted with one hearing aid today.
I have had mild tinnitus for years, not sure from what, but always pretty mild unless i exposed myself to extended loud noises then might take a couple of days to calm back down. It has been 4 weeks now Very shortly after i received my 1st dose of Pfizer (an hour or two) it is and has been much louder/noticeable than before and more persistent. I am scheduled for my 2nd on 3/31 and am afraid of it getting even worse. I did report it through VAERS. I keep hoping it will get back to what it was prior.
56 yo female. I got Astrazenica shot in February (live in uk) and developed tinnitus in my left ear also a kind of feeling that the ear is blocked. Went to doctors who asked if i had recently had a viral infection (not to my knowledge) he is referring me to ENT although we have free health care in uk it could be about 2 years before i see a specialist!! – i can’t bear the thought of this being permanent
Received 1st dose of Moderna vaccine on March 5th, 2021. Within one week, started experiencing an odd sound in my ears. Thinking it was the TV, I closed off my ears, and the noise was still there. The noise/sound/tinnitus has increased gradually over the past three weeks, and is now quite loud. Next vaccine dose is April 2, 2021. This Monday (3/29), will call the facility distributing the vaccine and inform them of my situation. Rethinking accepting the second dose . . .
— As a side issue, after the 1st dose, my left arm itched as if it was bitten by a mosquito, along with turning black and blue, for over a week. Has now, finally, returned to normal
I received my 2nd Pfizer vaccine on 25th March and this resulted in the onset of right sided tinnitus which is very distressing.I did notice mild ringing at night after 1st dose but didn’t think it had any relevance.
I got my second Pfizer vaccine 10 days ago and 2 days later my ears started hissing and rumbling. The next day I lost complete hearing in my left ear. I went to the doctors and they put me on steroids and antibiotics 5 days ago and no improvement yet.
Hi Mike, can i check whether your doctor had solve your problem? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
Hi Kayla,
Sorry to hear about your experience. I am not an expert, but I don’t know of an ENT procedure for sudden sensorineural hearing loss that would be available in the U.S. that isn’t available in Malaysia.
Corticosteroids are the first-line treatment. There was one case report of the use of corticosteroids in conjunction with hyperbaric oxygen therapy: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5758252/
But please continue consulting experts.
57 yo male. I just had my first dose of the Moderna vaccine on 3/27. Woke up early this morning (3/29) with ringing in both ears. I did an internet search seeking a possible explanation for new tinnitus symptoms that may be associated with the vaccine. I have never had tinnitus symptoms before. I have no history of hearing problems. Has this side effect been temporary for anyone?
Had my first dose of the Pfizer vaccine 4/23/21. Had a number of manageable side effects. Noticed on the 3rd day that the ringing in my ears was not going away. It’s constant. I cannot recall any time in my life when I have had constant tinnitus. I continue to report the symptom daily on my v-safe app. I saw my acupuncturist for it on 4/27 and may call my PCP if it continues.
Does the clogged up ear thing go away? I just took my shot yesterday Moderna 3/28/21 and today right ear feels like theres fluid in it. I didnt even shower last night. Is this going to be permanant? help.
After the first Moderna vaccine the ringing in my ears was loud, but after the second vaccine it is so loud I am at wits end! I cannot live this way, it is loud and never stops! If I knew the vaccine caused the ringing I wouldn’t have taken the first shot, definitely not the second
Barney, I’m sorry to hear you had that experience. Thank you for sharing the detail about the effect of the first, then second shot. I have lived with minor tinnitus for five years, the first Moderna shot I received increased the severity of the tinnitus, and I’m very reluctant now to get the second knowing that for some people what I fear has been the case: the second dose can lead to more severe symptoms than the first did.
I lost half my hearing in my right ear within 3 days after my 2nd dose of Moderna but after a week on prednisone I’m starting to get it back. I did report to VAERS. I’ve created a FB group for anyone who wants to compare notes. Please join me at “COVID Tinnitus” https://www.facebook.com/groups/269690388100157.
Hi George, I cant seem to find the facebook group you shared. I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my left ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I have already received 9 shots of Steroid injection(IV Hydrocortisone, IV Fluid) but still I am 50% deaf on my left ear. Do you mind recommending which doctor you went to? I wouldnt mind flying over to United States to get back my hearing.
Is there any reason to think these kinds of effects could be less likely with J&J vs. Moderna vs. Pfizer? Thanks.
Hi Sara- I don’t think we have enough information yet, but I have been glued to this site since my tinnitus started after the Moderna shot, and it seems to me it is happening with every brand of vaccine, here and in Europe. Like many people here, I am quite fearful of getting the second shot after experiencing what is now chronic tinnitus that I cannot escape day or night.
My husband had sudden hearing loss in his right ear after having the first Pfizer vaccine. We didn’t realize that it could be his covid shot, so he had his second shot on schedule (about 1 1/2 weeks after the deafness). When we heard it could be the vaccination, and steroids might help, we immediately made an appointment with an ENT doctor. They did hearing tests and my husband was stone deaf in that ear. The doctor put him on steroids for about a month and we returned to the ENT. He had recovered 90% of his hearing. Doctor was very surprised that it worked so well. Doctor said he may get back the other 10%.
Hi- This is one of the few hopeful posts I have read here. One question: Might the steroids affect the efficacy of the vaccine? I am so glad your husband’s hearing has returned! Thank you for posting.
I saw ENT yesterday for Moderna related tinnitus and was told yes steroids it will affect the efficacy of the vaccine so that is the dilemma – Do I take the steroids or continue to suffer with tinnitus from the vaccine and hope it goes away eventually?
Hi, I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my left ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I have already received 9 shots of Steroid injection(IV Hydrocortisone, IV Fluid) but still I am 50% deaf on my left year. Do you mind recommending which doctor you went to? I wouldnt mind flying over to United States to get back my hearing.
Lost hearing in my right ear, went into urgent care. Doctor said she had seen this with a few people thought it could be vaccine related and put me on prednisone. I hope it comes back it is driving me nuts. Its been 4 weeks since second vaccine, so not sure if they are related but I have no hearing loss in the family, no exposure to loud sound and I am 39 and healthy. I got sick with flu like symptoms from the pfizer vaccine and for the first week after my first shot. The second one was better. I would love to hear updates if anyone has gotten their hearing back?
Developed persistent tinnitus about a week after the first Moderna shot. Still ringing one month out; second shot coming up early next week and its crossed my mind to ride out Covid with just the one shot. Anecdotal or not, it seems the vaccines are triggering tinnitus in some people.
Update: Day two on prednisone, hearing is improving about half what it was yesterday but still not back to normal
Hi, may i know hows your ear now? Has the problem gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
For two weeks after my first dose of the Pfizer vaccine I was fine. On the 15th day, I got dizzy for a few seconds which was not a big deal. BUT later that day, I started getting ringing in my ears. It seemed like it was only the right ear which is the side I received the shot. I suffered for at least two more weeks and could not sleep or relax at all. I just didn’t want it to be permanent!! I also heard about keeping the diet clean to lower any inflammation. I have been eating lots fruits and vegetables and drinking a lot of water and exercising which I usually do.
I will say over the last few days it has been easing up. I will NOT get the 2nd dose no matter which expert I talk to. From what I heard on other sites, it often gets worse with the 2nd dose. The thought of that ever being permanent would destroy me. I also heard of a few cases of young people who went deaf. I have no questions in my mind that it was from the 1st dose. I don’t mean to be an alarmist but that is my honest truth. Been praying as well.
Hi, may i know hows your ear now? Has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
The night after my 2nd Moderna vaccine shot, I had a fever of 102F. The next morning my right ear completely lost hearing. I’ve never had any ear or hearing problem in my life. Two days later I started treatment, taking Prednisone injection and oral. No improvement. Two weeks after sudden hearing loss, I started Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, 10 sessions later, no improvement.
Now I am month and half into this sudden hearing loss, thousands of dollars spent in treatment. I would do anything possible to get my hearing back. My doctors have exhausted their ways and means to treat my hearing loss. I reported this to Moderna. So far I heard a few cases similar to mine in my doctor’s office. I am very disappointed no effective ways to treat this problem.
Hi, may i know hows your ear now? Has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
I got my Pfizer-Vaccine 17 days ago. After 14 days my tinnitus got worse and I had mild hearing loss on one ear. However the hearing loss gets a better quick, when I take Ibuprofen. That must be due to the antiinflammatory effects of Ibuprofen.
Maybe there is a parallel to the hearing problems in Covid19-patients. Here there are different theories on how this works. Some argue that the virus is attacking the nerves in the cochlea, while others say it is the immune response causing the problemes. If the latter is true then it would not be surprising if the vaccine-immune response would irritate hearing as well, since the antibodies are the same. We also know from other diseases that immune responses can hurt your hearing.
However what choice do you have? Sooner or later you will get the virus, which will probably cause even more damage
Lets see what my doctor says
On April 1st I received my second Pfizer vaccine, the following morning I lost all hearing in my left ear, the same side as the injection. I saw an ENT Doctor who has put me on prednisone, After a hearing test it was determined that I have profound hearing loss, no ringing, just a humming. I tried reaching out to Pfizer but they wouldn’t give me any info on how to treat it. Not feeling very optimistic about now. As a footnote I have never had any problems with my hearing prior to this event.
Received the 1st Moderna vaccine on 3/20. Severe vertigo, nausea sweats, chills, etc. on 3/23 and 3/24. Went to the ENT and had an ENG done showing weakness in the right ear. Then, had another really bad vertigo episode on 4/8 where all I did was turn over while sleeping. Both ears have felt clogged/full and my right ear has been ringing on and off for weeks. I have a hearing test scheduled for 4/20. I now have dizziness medication, a dizziness patch, will be getting bloodwork done, and then have an MRI scheduled. I’m supposed to get the 2nd dose on 4/17 and am seriously considering skipping it until I get my ears sorted. It’s been a horrible experience.
Well, I experienced exactly the same thing. Dizziness just turning in bed, fell over walking to the mailbox when I turned. I am 59 and a nurse and have never had any issues! Complete fullness in both ears. Right ear became worse as left improved. Eventually after 2 months Right ear ruptured ripping a large hole in my ear drum. ENT prescribed drops, antibiotic super strong. Wasn’t able to take any of it as it made me even sicker. 2nd shot Feb 9 Moderna, now Aug and still R ear is problematic. No ringing but still feels slightly full esp when lying down. Booster shots on the way! What a nightmare.
Hi,
See and consult with your doctor first but these are some things that may help to alleviate the side effects…
All these side effects of vertigo, dizziness and tinnitus, ear fullness, etc. are reminiscent of what happened to me following a flu vaccine. In addition to the above symptoms I also had rashes, heart racing, anxiety and some depression about being ill for almost a year. I had had flu shots in prior years with no side effects except feeling a little under the weather with a sore arm.
I wanted to share the things I discovered helped while I was recovering:
SEA BANDS really helped ease nausea and dizziness also calming (get them at the drugstore)
Once you put them on, it may take a few hours to get relief.
The cause of my vertigo, dizziness, ear fullness, tinnitus was from swelling, inflammation in the inner ear so these things were helpful.
Drink fresh ginger root tea with a little RAW honey, add spearmint tea bag if you like.
GINGER ROOT (anti-inflammatory with many other benefits)
Steep sliced ginger root in boiling water for 5-8 minutes.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-ginger
Add RAW UNFILTERED HONEY to help with taste (many health benefits)
https://www.healthline.com/health/food-/top-raw-honey-benefits
SPEARMINT TEA has many benefits that are helpful
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/spearmint#TOC_TITLE_HDR_9
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES, find a good homeopathic MD. The remedies gently bring your body back into balance, back to homeostasis. For some, it can help with the symptoms if they persist for a long time.
MEDITATE (close your eyes, hands on you belly, breathe slow, relaxed and deep, smile)
Fnding that so many have been suffering these side effects makes me very hesitant to get the J and J Covid vaccine.
Follow up to my message of yesterday. I had taken the Moderna vaccine on the 5th of April and developed tinnitus bilaterally on the 9th of April. Additionally, hearing in both ears was significantly decreased. It was like I had water in both ears.
As of 6 AM on April 11, the problem persists. There is no change, despite the warm to hot showers and decongestants. While I can hear, It is muted by about 50% in each ear. I am going to visit my general practitioner Monday. And I will fill out the VAERS report today as well. Anyone find any additional information on this?
Wesley H. RN BSN
Hi Wesley, may i know hows your ear now? Has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
I experienced rapid hearing loss last fall in one ear. Covid test was negative. Received J and J vaccine mid- March and since then have had 2 very bad bouts of vertigo with severe dizziness and vomiting.
Hey all. I’m so glad I found this thread because I’ve been struggling with some strange things since I recieved the full Moderna Vaccinations. I’ve been vaccinated for 1 month and 1/2 now. My new symptoms just started to really ramp up 2 weeks ago. Of course I had the initial with being sick for 2 and 1/2 days after my second shot….but recently it started with leg aches and then it matriculated up into my upper body. My legs have since become less achy per say. Now it’s my upper body and mostly in my shoulders (more in the one I recieved the shots in), back, and general fatigue. Currently still dealing with the upper body aches and discomfort but I noticed that I’ve had a slight headache and my vision has became a little funky in one eye. The headache is day to day but what’s interesting now is I’m having ear ringing and sensitivity to sound l, and light. Now I’ve always had vertigo issues that come and go over time but not like this. I’ve had recent testing done across the board and I’m healthy as an OX. The other lingering piece is the fatigue after doing activities. I’m an active guy and my body gets really achy after I do anything super strenuous and I get tired. FYI, I’m 41 year old male and I and my family do not go out into public unless we have to. We are extremely safe and maybe the CDC could takes some cues from us lol. Interestingly enough I called Moderna today and reported all of what I stated above and the young lady on the phone was very kind and listened carefully. She asked mostly of what my symptoms are or were, when I recieved the shots, and what lot numbers I had from said shots. After finishing the updates, she asked if their medical team could reach out to me and I said of course. When we finished, I followed by asking, “I imagine you can’t say anything but has anyone else reported anything of this nature. I also said, “I understand if you can’t due to company policies and all.” Her response was a give away. She said, “thank you for understanding.” By her tone and general affect, I knew than that there’re more of us out there. For the record, I’m seasoned therapist and I pick up on social cues for a living. That all being, I still have hope that we are going to get through this and finding this thread speaks volumes to my concerns and gave me some piece of mind knowing that I’m not crazy. I thank you again for all of you commenting. At the end of the day, I look at all of this, this sucks but it’s better than getting COVID AND DYING.
I had an appointment for the Moderna vaccine this Wednesday but cancelled due to what has happened to so many posting here. I have been a severe tinnitus & hearing loss sufferer for 35 years now. I had heard some reports about people fainting and such after the vaccine so I decided to do a search prior to going for my appointment. I had no idea there were hearing related issues. This is just not getting the coverage that it should.
I’m someone who cannot take any chance on having my condition worsen. I feel awful about it. I know there is a risk now that I might get COVID which also causes hearing loss and tinnitus. At the worst it can outright kill you. I only know I’m not willing to risk more damage by getting this vaccine. Something isn’t right that this is going on and the public doesn’t know about it. I guess because most people aren’t having hearing problems people just think it’s such a low risk there is no reason to cause alarm. This is fine if you’re one of the people who doesn’t come down with hearing problems but horrible for those who do. My best wishes for everyone here who is suffering.
I had the first AstraZeneca vaccine 27th January 2021, I thought I’d got off scott free as I had no side effects whatsoever apart from a tender injection site. How wrong I was. 3 weeks later I developed a terrible headache and constant tinnitus, the pressure inside my head was horrific, I couldn’t think straight and my balance was out, I was emotional as I felt I was at the beginning stages of dementia. I had every test, hearing, ear pressure, eye test, even an MRI on my head. Nothing was found. Then 3 weeks ago I decided to look online to see whether there could possibly be a connection between the vaccine and my symptoms. Bingo! Thankfully the balance and headache problem has mostly gone, but the tinnitus is as loud and constant as it was at the beginning. I am so lucky to be able to sleep with it, I think it would tip me over the edge if I couldn’t get my rest. I have no idea whether this is now my new normal, I have never had tinnitus nor any ear problems before the vaccine. I am going into my third month of this, to say I’m angry is an understatement. The GP, ENT and medical official at the vaccine station told me NOT to have the second vaccine. I wish I’d never had the first.
Rachel, Have you had any relief or updates? I am going through same thing.
Hi Rachel, may i know hows your ear now? Has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
Hi everyone. I am a 54 year old health care worker who takes no medications and have always been very healthy. I developed severe tinnitus after receiving the 2nd Moderna vaccine on 1/20/21. I had a horrible headache about 10 hours after receiving the vaccine, and shortly thereafter, my ears started ringing. I thought it would go away with the other side effects, but three months later, it is still just as bad. I was told by the ENT I went to, as well as other health care professionals, that it could not possibly be the vaccine that caused this. Thank you for posting because I felt alone in what I am going through. I am sure it is the vaccine and have done extensive research. Tinnitus is a neurological brain issue, not an ear issue, and if you research mitochondrial dysfunction and destruction, Oxidative Stress, and Reactive Oxygen Species, it is a real eye-opener. All of these are also effects of having Covid- so the vaccine replicated some of the severe effects of the Virus. I hope the truth comes out and they can develop a vaccine that is safer.
Geri, have you had any relief? And updates?
Hi, may i know hows your ear now? Has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
I got the first Pfizer shot on 4/9 later that day my ears started to feel stuffy and burny. I emailed my ENT and he actually called me. He said that in his practice he has seen an uptick in tinnitus and hearing loss since the vaccine. His brother who is also an ENT has seen the same thing. He believes the vaccine is causing inflammation and it causing this issue. He said if I have any hearing loss or tinnitus (which I am praying I don’t after everyone horror stories) to come in and he will either put me on steroids or inject steroids to my ears. He said that everyone who has been treated in his practice with the steroids has gotten their hearing back. He also said that the steroids can work against the vaccine so it is a catch 22. He said if I was his sister he would tell me to get the second shot especially if I only have ear fullness. Just wanted to let people know what 2 ENT have said and confirmed. Praying everyone heals from this horrible side effect. I can’t even sleep worrying about it so much.
I lost all hearing in my left ear following my first Moderna shot on Jan 8th. I had oral steriods for 14 days plus 3 injections of steriods. I still have no hearing in left ear. My ENT also saw increases in sudden hearing loss noted in the ENT blog that he follows. He believes, as I do, than it was the result of the vaccine shot. He does not think my hearing will return. I have been searching for answers but have not found any. Did the steriods reduce the effectiveness of the shot? It was 9 days after the shot when I started the steriods. They could not tell me if I should or should not get the second dose. I chose not to as I would no risk losing all my hearing. IF ?? the first dose was 65% effective, the risk seemed greater than the reward. I’m very concerned that no one can give me any answers! I sent two emails to the top infectious disease Dr. in our state, and have received NO response!
I hope your out come will be better!
Hi jbeef2, may i know hows your ear now? Has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
Hi , may i know hows your ear now? Has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
first does was on 3/23, no side effects. got my second dose on 4/13 and 15 minutes after I got the shot the tinnitus kicked in, ears have been ringing ever since.
Within 3 weeks of receiving my second Pfizer Vaccine, I lost 88% of hearing in my left ear. Started as a sort of ‘swimmer’s ear’ a week prior, but then one night, it just shut down. Prednisone brought it back up to about 70% at 90 dbls. My career is in directing church music and the sound I hear with the left ear is distorted and competes with the sound I hear in the right ear. 4 hearing tests and an MRI have not shed light on anything, and I am repeatedly being told to let my brain adapt to the sound differences. I don’t find this helpful. I have been told that a hearing aid will not help how I hear music, so that is out. I am wondering if there is anything else out there that could prove helpful moving forward. Also, wondering how a booster vaccine next year might affect my hearing at that time?
Really sorry to hear about your experience.
There are some companies with clinical trials for drugs to treat hearing loss and tinnitus, but there isn’t really much substantive data yet from what I’ve seen. Data for a drug known as FX-322 released earlier this year showed no improvement over placebo, but future studies involving different drugs may offer more hope.
You’ve probably seen articles linking COVID-19 itself to hearing problems for some patients.
More data will be required to answer your question about booster vaccines, I’m afraid. It seems there is little firm data on the subject as things stand now and scant information is available on COVID-19 boosters. Moderna recently released some data from their clinical study involving a booster, but it was more of a capsule overview.
Brian, have you heard of many cases of tinnitus going away?
I got tinnitus 5 days after my second Moderna shot. Never had it before, never even really knew what tinnitus was. I didn’t really put the Moderna vaccine and tinnitus together until my sister said she heard that this is happening in some people.
I heard 98% of Tinnitus cases resolve themselves in 3-6 months. Kaiser ENT’s wont usually see people until they have had tinnitus for 6 months, though I forced my way in, with no help. This means we may not see people have a rest, God Willing, for a few more months.
Mine did go away for 1 day.
Thanks for the article,
-Brian (another Brian)
Hi Brian,
I’ve heard several anecdotal reports of moderate to severe tinnitus improving with time, but I don’t have firm data to point to. In fact, I think firm data is difficult to gather given the subjective nature of the condition and the fact that stress can exacerbate it. Several studies that have tried various strategies to improve tinnitus, including the use of pitch discrimination, tailor-made notched sound therapy, seem to have significant placebo components. Some of the better data I’ve seen is for bimodal stimulation, but it still seems like there isn’t a ton of clinical data for it either.
It might help to think of tinnitus like a stock market, but one that, hopefully, is going down rather than up over time. There are days when it will drop down or upward, but on the whole, it is relatively stable. The more you can distract yourself, relax and let the sound fade into the background, the more likely the volume will decrease over time. But sometimes, it can flare up unexpectedly. When that happens, it can help to see the increase in ear noise as a reminder or inspiration to get a lot of sleep, a massage, adjust your diet, time for relaxation, go for a hike, etc. Whatever you find most helpful…. There is a lot to experiment with. Over time, you can get a sense of what helps and what doesn’t.
I’d suggest trying to ignore negative reports from people with the condition and try to seek out advice from people who have improved. There are reports online. It’s worth being skeptical of some of the claimed reasons given, but just hearing about people improving can be encouraging. The messaging from some experts that there is little we can do about it is not super helpful. As you point out, many people do improve over time. I’m not sure it is 98%, but it is likely a significant number.
Brian, Thank you for your response. I understand the research data is limited at this stage. It is just so frustrating to not hear music I am playing/directing the same way; and I am unsure what to expect in weeks ahead. I am meeting with an ENT MD for the first time (vs PA) this coming week and am hoping for encouragement – though, this is new to many of us. With so few SSHL cases reported to the VAERS following the vaccine, there isn’t much to build on.
Will there be any of this SSHL topic included in your newsletter? I did sign up for it.
Thank you again for providing this opportunity to ask questions.
Hi, can i check whether you have seen any doctor regarding your problem? And has it gone away? I got my Pfizer shot in Malaysia on 17 August 2021, and I developed a sudden sensorineural hearing loss on my right ear(as confirmed by a Ear, nose and throat Specialist I have seen) on the 3 September 2021. I was wondering if your problem is solved by any doctor in the United States? If yes do you mind recommending me? I wouldnt mind flying over to United Stated to get back my hearing.
I had a small amount of ringing in both ears for about 5 years, but nothing too bad. BUT 7 days after I received the 1st dose of the Pfizer Vaccine I had severe ringing in both ears. It is so bad I think I’m bleeding inside my ears. They both hurt so bad and will not stop. I’m going on 4 weeks now and it’s driving me crazy. Plus I started having severe migraines as well. They have been coming daily after the vaccine and on top of that severe fatigue. They thing is I had covid back in December and I had all these symptoms but they went away and after I took the 1st dose of the vaccine they all came back and worse this time. I don’t know what to do to make this go away. I’m not sure how much more I can take.
Could be worth going to a specialist if you haven’t already gone? Hope you get better soon…
Hello, I’m not sure what I should do. I have had many years of one-sided deafness and tinnitus. But it has not really bothered me. Since I got my J&J vaccine shot in March 2021, my tinnitus is much increased and is very bothersome. I am on a chronic immunosuppressant, and what I am reading lately is that immunocompromised people should get a booster shot. I am age 67. I don’t know if I should get a booster shot as I am worried that will make my tinnitus even worse. Does anybody have any ideas about this?
Thanks for sharing. As always, would say check with your doctor(s), but it seems like COVID-19 has more potential for causing complications than the vaccines do. There does seem to be a consensus building that boosters are a good idea for people who are immunocompromised as you mention. There is still not a lot of substantial medical information on tinnitus and the COVID-19 vaccines, although there were a handful of reports in the J&J clinical trial. Maybe ask an ENT who specializes in tinnitus or neurologist for advice?
I am 53 year old white male (I do not know if this might have meaning or not). I have received first dose of Pfizer/BIONTech vaccine to my right arm. I lost hearing in my right ear 36 hours after the vaccination. It became worse during the next 6 to 8 hours. I went to see my family doctor the next day. She prescribed an auditory test that revealed 75% hearing loss in my right ear.
Given the fact that it was most probably caused by my immune system trying to fight off “infected” cells of the inner ear or, the auditive nerve by “the quasi-virus” of the mRNA vaccine, my doctor prescribed the Prednison, a strong steroid in order to weaken my immune system and especially, the newly developed immune response created by the Pfizer vaccine. In other words, the drug was supposed to “reverse” temporarily the effect of the vaccination in order to stop my immune system from destroying my hearing.
The course of Prednison was 14 days, first 7 days 50MG and the second 7 days, 25 mg a day each morning.
Unfortunately, other than side effects consisting of restlessness causing insomnia happening from the first day, excessive sweating and strong heartburn causing my pharynx to get severely irritated, the damage to my hearing was not reversed. The damage seems to be permanent given the fact that it is now 5 months since my vaccine. I did not take the second dose of the vaccine in order to not get damaged even more. What I regret is that I decided to get vaccinated. I truly do. I could have my hearing.