“There’s a recognized connection between migraine and hearing loss, though the relationship isn’t entirely understood,” says Michael Genovese, MD, a physician and the chief medical adviser at Ascendant New York.
Hearing loss isn’t a typical symptom of migraine, Dr. Genovese explains, but it can occur because of how a migraine attack can affect the function of the inner ear. When the inner ear is affected, sudden hearing loss can occur, a phenomenon called “sensorineureal hearing loss” in clinical terms.
“Although not everyone with migraine will experience hearing-related symptoms, it’s a connection worth exploring, especially if hearing problems arise alongside frequent migraine episodes,” says Genovese.
How Might Migraine Cause Hearing Loss?
Still, there are possible explanations. “Migraine may lead to hearing loss through two primary pathways: changes in blood flow and inflammation,” says Genovese. “During a migraine attack, blood vessels can constrict and then suddenly dilate, causing disruptions in blood circulation. This inconsistent blood flow can affect the inner ear, which relies on a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients to function correctly.
“When this supply is disrupted, it can damage the delicate structures involved in hearing,” he says.
Migraine attacks also trigger inflammation in the body, Genovese says, which can then interfere with nerve signaling in the auditory pathways. “These inflammatory changes may play a role in causing symptoms like tinnitus, ear fullness, or even sudden hearing loss. Vestibular migraine attacks, in particular, are more closely associated with hearing and balance symptoms.” Tinnitus is characterized by a ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ears.
“It’s also possible that in people who live with migraine, chronic pain leads to the phenomenon of brain sensitization,” Dr. Riggins explains, a process in which the brain becomes too sensitive to stimuli over time.