“Study finds the SARS-CoV-2 virus can infect the inner ear The prevalence of auditory symptoms in Covid-19 patients is unknown, but infection of the inner ears may be responsible for hearing and balance problems.”
“Covid 19 and The Ears - Direct Viral Invasion of Inner Ear Cells
The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching consequences and illness, with emerging evidence suggesting that the virus can also affect the auditory system and cause hearing-related complications. This article explores the potential impact of COVID-19 on hearing, tinnitus, and balance disorders.
- The SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 can directly infect certain cell types in the inner ear, including hair cells and Schwann cells [1][3][4]. “
8-30% of people with COVID-19 report spinning vertigo, dizziness, imbalance, and gait disturbance, sometimes with tinnitus or hearing loss.
COVID-19, like other lung infections, may cause labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis, leading to these symptoms.
“New research finds that cells in the ear are susceptible to infection with SARS-CoV-2, causing symptoms that include dizziness, ear ringing, and hearing loss.
Experts say that other viruses may also cause hearing loss, and newborns can be especially at risk.”
“Gibson developed acute hearing loss in one ear, along with vertigo and tinnitus, several weeks after experiencing a mild COVID-19 infection in 2022.”
COVID-19 linked to sudden hearing loss in woman: A case report
SARS-CoV-2 infection of the inner ear
SARS-CoV-2 can infect inner ear cells, specifically hair cells and Schwann cells, which are crucial for hearing and balance.
Some COVID-19 patients developed hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo, suggesting a link between the virus and these symptoms.