What Is Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
Sensorineural hearing loss occurs from problems in the inner ear or the auditory nerve. Unlike conductive hearing loss, which is often temporary and treatable, SNHL is usually permanent. The damage affects how the ear perceives and processes sound, making it difficult to hear soft sounds and understand speech clearly, especially in noisy environments.
This type of hearing loss can appear gradually over time or suddenly, depending on the condition cause. While it cannot be cured medically or surgically in most cases, it can be managed effectively with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Common Causes of Sensorineural Hearing Loss
SNHL can be caused by several factors, including:
- Aging (Presbycusis): Age-related hearing loss is one of the most common forms of SNHL and usually affects both ears.
- Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can damage hair cells in the inner ear.
- Genetics: Hereditary factors can lead to congenital or progressive hearing loss.
- Ototoxic Medications: Certain drugs, like chemotherapy agents and antibiotics, may harm the inner ear.
- Infections and Illnesses: Meningitis, measles, or mumps can impact inner ear function.
- Head Trauma: Physical injury can affect the inner ear structures or auditory nerve.
- Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL): An unexplained, rapid hearing loss that happens over a short period and requires urgent medical attention.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Early identification of sensorineural hearing loss is essential for effective intervention. Look out for these common signs:
- Difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy places
- Sounds seem muffled or distorted
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds like birds or alarms
If you or a loved one experience these symptoms, schedule a professional hearing test with Hearzap for accurate diagnosis and guidance.
Diagnosis and Management
At Hearzap, our audiologists conduct thorough hearing evaluations, including audiometry and speech recognition tests, to determine the type and severity of hearing loss.
Treatment options include:
- Digital Hearing Aids: Modern devices amplify sound and improve speech clarity. Hearzap offers a range of styles tailored to lifestyle and budget.
- Cochlear Implants: Suitable for individuals with severe or profound SNHL when hearing aids are ineffective.
- Assistive Listening Devices: Tools like FM systems and amplified phones support daily communication needs.
Although SNHL is permanent, timely intervention can greatly enhance communication and quality of life.
Why Choose Hearzap?
Hearzap is a trusted hearing care platform that combines technology, professional expertise, and personalized services. Whether you need a hearing test, a home visit, or the latest hearing aid models, we make it easy and accessible. Our team of certified audiologists ensures you receive the right care for your hearing condition.
Take control of your hearing health today — book your consultation with Hearzap and discover the best solution for sensorineural hearing loss.