Hearing Loss & Ear Numbness

For the past several days, my husband has complained of a "novacain" (spelling??) type of numb feeling in and around his left ear and complete hearing loss in that ear. He cannot hear at all in that ear. We are uncertain what this is and what might have caused it. Any advice?

[Nancy T]

He should see an ENT immediately. Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency, even though most non-specialist doctors don't know this. Call an ENT office tomorrow morning first thing and tell them he's had a sudden hearing loss and numbness. They should see you the same day. If not, try an urgent-care office or even the ER if necessary to be seen right away and get a hearing test and other evaluation.