COVID-19 Vaccine-Associated Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Tinnitus

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the incidence of otolaryngological symptoms, including tinnitus and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), following both infection and vaccination. Tinnitus remains a prevalent and difficult-to-treat symptom, with limited reported cases linked to the Sinopharm vaccine. We present the case of a 79-year-old female with hypertension who developed bilateral tinnitus seven days after her first Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccination and had previously recovered from COVID-19 without postinfection sequelae. Audiometry revealed high-frequency SNHL in both ears. Despite the vitamin B complex and multiple courses of piracetam, her hearing did not improve, although her tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) score slightly decreased. Tinnitus following COVID-19 vaccination is rare, with even fewer cases associated with inactivated vaccines such as Sinopharm. Management remains challenging, and the psychological impact of the pandemic may contribute to symptom persistence. Early intervention and awareness are essential for optimal care.