Symptoms  |  Causes  |  Treatment

What is sensorineural hearing loss?


 
Sensorineural hearing loss is a type of hearing loss that occurs when there is damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve. It is the most common form of permanent hearing loss and often affects the ability to hear both soft sounds and the clarity of speech.

 

What causes sensorineural hearing loss?

Common causes of sensorineural hearing loss include:

 
  •   Aging
  •   Noise exposure
  •   Genetics
  •   Some medications
  •   Infections
 

Sensorineural hearing loss symptoms

 
Symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss include:

 
  •   Difficulty hearing soft sounds or understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.
  •   Sounds may seem muffled or distorted.
  •   Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear).
  •   Difficulty with high-frequency sounds (e.g. children’s voices, birds chirping).
  •   In severe cases, complete loss of hearing in one or both ears.

Treatment for sensorineural hearing loss  

 
Sensorineural hearing loss is generally permanent, as the damage to hair cells or nerves cannot be repaired. That is why early detection is key! Assistive devices like hearing aids and cochlear implants, along with rehabilitation therapies, can significantly improve quality of life. If you are concerned about your hearing, please don’t hesitate to speak to your trusted Spec-Savers Audiologist.

 

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