Management of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss among General Practitioners in the United Kingdom: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study.

OBJECTIVE

To assess how general practitioners (GPs) in the United Kingdom recognise, investigate, and manage sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), and to determine the extent to which their practice aligns with national guidance.

METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey was distributed between January and July 2025 to fully qualified GPs across the West Midlands. The questionnaire explored definitions used, diagnostic methods, management strategies, and familiarity with NICE and ENT UK recommendations.

RESULTS

Fifty GPs completed the survey. Although 84% attempted to distinguish conductive from sensorineural loss, only 56% regularly used tuning-fork tests. Urgent ENT referral was the most common initial step (68%), while only 18% initiated pharmacological therapy and 36% prescribed corticosteroids. Fewer than half were familiar with guideline content, yet 96% expressed a wish for additional training.

CONCLUSION

SSNHL remains inconsistently recognized and managed in UK primary care. Improving GP confidence through targeted ENT education and streamlined referral pathways could substantially enhance early treatment and hearing outcomes.