What type of hearing loss is categorized as sudden?

Sudden hearing loss is characterized as an acute condition, where individuals experience a rapid onset of hearing impairment, often within 72 hours. This type of hearing loss can be indicative of various underlying medical issues that require prompt assessment and intervention to prevent permanent damage. Immediate medical attention is critical in such cases, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery.

The other options describe different characteristics of hearing loss, such as gradual onset which indicates a slow progression, stabilization over time suggesting a chronic condition with no further decline, and loss not affecting speech which may refer to certain types of mild or specific hearing impairments. However, none of these descriptions align with the acute nature and urgency associated with sudden hearing loss.