Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS)
Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) is a rare and treatable inner ear condition. It happens when there is an abnormal opening, or very thin bone, over the superior semicircular canal in the inner ear.
This can cause unusual problems with sound, pressure, hearing, and balance
What is Happening in My Body?
The inner ear normally has two main “windows” that help manage sound and pressure. In SCDS, the extra opening acts like a third window. This can disrupt how sound and pressure move through the inner ear.
Because of this, you may have both hearing and balance symptoms.
Because of this you may feel:
- Dizziness or vertigo, especially with loud sounds or pressure changes
- Symptoms triggered by coughing, sneezing, or straining
- Hearing internal body sounds too loudly, such as your heartbeat, footsteps, or even eye movements
- Sound sensitivity
- Sound that seems distorted or too strong
- Hearing loss, often in lower tones
- Fullness in the ear
- Objects that should look still may seem to bounce or move
It is important to know:
- This opening or thinning in the bone is often present from birth
- Symptoms may not start until later
- Symptoms can begin after head injury, pressure changes, or aging
- You did not cause this
- Your symptoms are real
- Many people improve with the right care
How is SCDS Diagnosed?
To diagnose you, your provider may use:
- Hearing tests
- Balance tests (ENG/VNG)
- A CT scan of the temporal bone
- Your symptom history, especially dizziness triggered by sound or straining
- Other hearing tests, such as acoustic reflex testing
What Your Provider May Ask:
- Has your hearing changed?
- Has your balance been affected?
- How long have you had these symptoms?
- What makes your symptoms worse?
How is SCDS Treated?
There are different possible treatments for SCDS. Treatment will depend on how severe your symptoms are.
Mild cases
- Avoid loud sounds when possible
- Avoid heavy straining when possible
- Learn what triggers your symptoms
- Vestibular therapy may help with balance symptoms
More severe cases
- Surgery may be used to repair or plug the canal
What Can I Expect Over Time?
Will I get better?
Many people improve by avoiding triggers. For severe cases, surgery may help.
How long will it take?
It can take time to get the right diagnosis. Once you know your triggers, you may be able to manage symptoms better.
Can I live a normal life?
Yes. Many people do well, but you may need to make changes to avoid loud noise and straining.
When Should I Call My Provider?
Call your provider if you have:
- More frequent or stronger attacks
- New or worsening hearing loss
- Trouble walking
- Frequent falls
- Ongoing vomiting
Call 911 right away if you have:
- Face drooping
- Weakness
- Trouble speaking
- A severe headache
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Severe confusion
- A serious head injury
Questions to Ask Your Provider:
- Do I have hearing loss?
- Am I at risk for falling?
- Do I need surgery?
Key Takeaways/Key Points to Remember
- SCDS is a rare condition caused by an abnormal opening or thinning in the bone over part of the inner ear.
- It can cause both hearing and balance problems.
- Many people improve by avoiding triggers like loud sound and straining.
- Surgery is usually considered only when symptoms are more severe.
Additional Resources
- Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) – Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence
- Johns Hopkins Medical System – Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS)
- Cleveland Clinic – Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS)