Sudden Deafnessaccording to TCM

What is Sudden Deafness?

Sudden deafness, or sudden sensorineural hearing loss, is an abrupt loss of hearing, typically in one ear, that can occur all at once or over several days. It is often accompanied by a popping sound right before the hearing disappears and can sometimes be associated with tinnitus or a sensation of ear fullness. Quick medical attention is crucial for this alarming and disorienting condition, as early treatment can significantly improve the likelihood of recovery.

How does TCM View Sudden Deafness?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sudden deafness is often perceived as a consequence of internal disharmony affecting the sensory functions. TCM postulates that this condition could stem from a variety of patterns, primarily involving the disruption of Qi— the vital energy of the body. Two patterns commonly associated with sudden deafness are the obstruction of Qi flow due to External Wind and the imbalance caused by Heat in the body.

The External Wind pattern is thought to lead to blockages in the Channels that supply Qi to the ears, manifesting as sudden hearing loss. TCM treatments aim to expel this Wind and restore the unimpeded flow of Qi. On the other hand, an excess of Heat can perturb the balance of internal systems, potentially 'steaming' the sensory organs and leading to sudden deafness. Remedies in TCM focus on clearing this Heat and cooling the body to regain equilibrium.

Understanding the underlying pattern is crucial in TCM, as it guides the practitioner to a tailored treatment strategy. Each individual's presentation of sudden deafness is unique and, therefore, requires a personalized approach to restore the harmonious flow of Qi and address the specific pattern at play.

Acupoints for Sudden Deafness

In managing sudden deafness, TCM turns to specific acupoints believed to influence ear function. Sidu TB-9 is one such point, located on the arm, which can benefit the throat and ears and is used in cases where hearing loss is thought to be linked to blockages affecting the upper body channels.

Tianyou TB-16, near the neck, is employed to harmonize the Qi dynamics in the head, potentially addressing the sudden energetic shifts causing hearing loss. Yemen TB-2, found on the hand, is another point selected for its supposed ability to expel pathogenic Wind and clear heat from the head, providing relief for symptoms associated with sudden deafness. The choice of these points, their combination, and the technique of stimulation are tailored to each individual's condition, reflecting the personalized nature of TCM treatment.

Explore below some acupoints used to address sudden deafness, organized by meridian.

Yemen TB-2

Proximal to the margin of the web between the ring and small fingers.

Sidu TB-9

5 cun distal to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, between the radius and ulna.

Tianyou TB-16

Posterior and inferior to the mastoid process, on the posterior border of sternocleidomastoid muscle, level with Tianrong SI-17 and Tianzhu BL-10.