Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence Syndrome

What is Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence (SSCD)?

SSCD is a condition affecting the inner ear. Three fluid-filled loops called semicircular canals control your balance. In SSCD, the thin bone covering the top loop is defective, creating a tiny hole or "third window."

 

Common Symptoms

This defect causes hearing and pressure waves to confuse the inner ear. It can lead to strange and frustrating symptoms:

  • Sound-Triggered Dizziness: Dizzy spells or a spinning sensation brought on by loud noises (like sirens, shouting, or musical instruments).

  • Pressure-Triggered Dizziness: Vertigo triggered by coughing, sneezing, straining, or heavy lifting.

  • Hearing Internal Sounds: Hearing your own voice booming too loudly in your head (autophony), or even hearing the sound of your heartbeat, pulse, or  eyes moving.

  • Unusual Hearing Changes: Background noises might seem too loud, or the ear might feel full or blocked.

 

Treatment Options

Not everyone with SSCD requires surgery. Treatment depends entirely on how much the symptoms interfere with the patient's daily life:

  • Lifestyle Adjustments: If symptoms are mild, the patient may simply need to avoid triggers, use earplugs around loud noises, and avoid heavy straining.

  • Surgical Options: If the dizziness or internal noise is overwhelming and affects the patient's ability to work or drive, a Neurotologist at ENT Associates can perform surgery. They patch or plug the tiny hole in the bone using a natural tissue graft or bone cement. This seals the canal and safely eliminates the abnormal symptoms.