Sensorineural hearing loss, also commonly known as “nerve loss” or “nerve deafness,” is the most common type of hearing loss accounting for more than 90 percent of hearing loss in people who wear hearing aids. Sensorineural hearing loss is a result of damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear nerve cells called “hair cells”.
Hair cells get their name because they look like little hairs. It’s not like when your ears get blocked by something. This type of hearing loss can be caused by things like getting older, being around loud noises a lot, medications, or certain illnesses.
With sensorineural hearing loss soft sounds become harder to hear and loud sounds can often be unclear or even uncomfortable. People with sensorineural hearing loss might find it tough to understand what people are saying, especially when it’s noisy around them. Sometimes, sounds might seem fuzzy or not quite right. This kind of hearing loss is usually permanent.
Typically, there is no medical treatment (medication or surgery) that can effectively treat sensorineural hearing loss. It’s important to know the signs of sensorineural hearing loss so we can get help early. With the right help and support, people with hearing loss can still do lots of things and enjoy life. The best type of hearing treatment for sensorineural hearing loss is generally hearing aids.
What causes sensorineural hearing loss?
Sensorineural hearing loss can be caused by various factors, including aging, exposure to loud noises, certain medications, and genetic predispositions. It occurs when there is damage to the delicate hair cells in the inner ear or to the auditory nerve pathways that transmit sound signals to the brain. Other possible causes include head trauma, infections, and diseases such as Meniere’s disease. Understanding the underlying cause of sensorineural hearing loss is essential for determining the most appropriate treatment and management strategies.
Genetic
Genetic hearing loss is a type of hearing impairment that is inherited from one’s parents through their genes, the tiny instructions that determine traits passed down from generation to generation. These genetic instructions can sometimes contain errors, leading to hearing problems.
This type of hearing loss can manifest in various ways. It may be present from birth, known as congenital hearing loss, or it may develop later in life due to inherited genetic factors. The severity of genetic hearing loss can vary widely, ranging from mild to profound, and it can affect one or both ears.
The causes of genetic hearing loss are diverse and complex. Changes or mutations in specific genes responsible for the development and function of the auditory system can lead to this condition. These genetic changes can be inherited from one or both parents, who may themselves have hearing loss or carry the gene without experiencing symptoms.
Living with genetic hearing loss can present challenges, but there are ways to manage the condition. Hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive listening devices can help improve hearing and communication. Additionally, strategies such as reducing background noise and looking at the speaker’s face can facilitate better communication for individuals with genetic hearing loss.
Early detection and intervention are crucial for individuals with genetic hearing loss. A full audiological evaluation by an audiologist can help diagnose genetic hearing loss and guide decisions about treatment and management options.
By understanding the genetic basis of their hearing loss and accessing appropriate support and resources, individuals with genetic hearing loss can lead fulfilling lives and participate fully in society. Ongoing research into the genetics of hearing loss offers hope for improved diagnostics, treatments, and interventions in the future.
Congenital
Congenital hearing loss refers to hearing impairment that is present at birth or develops shortly after birth. It can affect one or both ears and may range from mild to profound in severity. Audiology is the branch of healthcare specializing in the diagnosis and management of hearing disorders, including congenital hearing loss.
Audiologists are healthcare professionals trained to assess hearing function and provide interventions to individuals with hearing loss. For babies born with congenital hearing loss, early detection and intervention are crucial for optimal language and communication development. Audiologists play a vital role in conducting newborn hearing screenings shortly after birth to identify hearing loss early.
If a newborn does not pass the initial hearing screening, further diagnostic testing, such as auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing or otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing, may be performed to confirm the presence and severity of hearing loss. Audiologists work closely with pediatricians, otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors), and other healthcare professionals to coordinate comprehensive care for infants with congenital hearing loss.
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, audiologists collaborate with families to develop individualized treatment plans. This may include fitting the child with hearing aids or cochlear implants to improve access to sound and promote speech and language development. Audiologists also provide ongoing monitoring of hearing function and adjustment of assistive devices as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.
In addition to direct patient care, audiologists play a role in educating families about hearing loss, communication strategies, and available support services. They serve as advocates for individuals with congenital hearing loss, working to ensure access to appropriate accommodations and resources for academic and social success.
Through early detection, intervention, and ongoing support from audiologists and other healthcare professionals, children with congenital hearing loss can achieve their full potential and thrive in all aspects of life.
Presbycusis
Presbycusis is a type of hearing loss that occurs gradually as people age. It’s a common condition, often affecting both ears and typically beginning around age 50 or older. Audiologists play a vital role in diagnosing and managing presbycusis.
Audiologists assess hearing function through various tests, such as audiograms, speech-in-noise testing, and immittance (a test of inner ear function) to determine the extent and nature of the hearing loss. They then work with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans, which may include hearing aids or assistive listening devices and in severe cases, cochlear implants to improve communication and quality of life.
Audiologists provide counseling and support to help individuals and their families adjust to the changes associated with presbycusis and navigate strategies for coping with hearing loss in daily life.
Risks of Loud Noise Exposure
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when prolonged or repeated exposure to loud noises damages the delicate structures of the inner ear. This type of hearing loss can be caused by various sources of loud noise, including industrial machinery, power tools, firearms, music concerts, and recreational activities like motorcycling or using personal audio devices at high volumes.
Two types of noise can contribute to NIHL: continuous noise, which is consistent and prolonged exposure to sounds like machinery in factories, and impulse noise, which involves sudden, loud bursts of sound, such as gunfire or explosions.
Protecting one’s hearing from loud noise is crucial in preventing NIHL. Wearing earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments can significantly reduce the risk of hearing damage. Additionally, limiting exposure to loud noises and taking breaks during prolonged exposure can help preserve hearing health.
Regular hearing health checkups are essential, especially for individuals frequently exposed to loud noise, whether in industrial settings or during recreational activities. These checkups can help detect early signs of hearing loss and allow for timely intervention and management.
Audiologists can conduct hearing assessments and guide hearing protection strategies tailored to an individual’s needs and lifestyle. By prioritizing hearing health and taking proactive measures to prevent hearing loss, individuals can preserve their ability to hear and maintain overall well-being.
Signs and symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss
Signs and symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss may include difficulty understanding speech, particularly in noisy environments, as well as perceiving sounds as muffled or distorted. Individuals with sensorineural hearing loss may find themselves constantly asking others to repeat themselves or turning up the volume on electronic devices (TV, radio, phone, etc.).
They might struggle to hear high-pitched sounds or perceive a ringing or buzzing sensation in their ears, known as tinnitus. Sensorineural hearing loss can significantly impact communication and quality of life, underscoring the importance of early detection and intervention to mitigate its effects.
How is sensorineural hearing loss diagnosed?
Diagnosing sensorineural hearing loss involves a comprehensive evaluation by an audiologist. The diagnostic process typically includes a detailed medical history review, and hearing tests such as audiometry to assess hearing sensitivity and speech discrimination testing to measure understanding of speech.
Additional tests like tympanometry may be conducted to evaluate middle ear function, while imaging studies such as MRI can help rule out underlying structural abnormalities. By combining these assessments, audiologists can determine the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss, guiding appropriate treatment and management strategies tailored to the individual’s needs. Regular follow-up evaluations may also be recommended to monitor hearing health and adjust interventions as needed.
Case History
Case history questions for sensorineural hearing loss typically inquire about the onset and progression of hearing loss, exposure to loud noises, family history of hearing problems, use of medications that may affect hearing, and any associated symptoms like dizziness or ringing in the ears. These questions help audiologists understand potential causes and guide appropriate diagnostic and treatment strategies for individuals experiencing sensorineural hearing loss.
Otoscopy
Otoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the outer ear canal and eardrum using an otoscope, a handheld instrument with a light and magnifying lens. It helps healthcare providers identify abnormalities such as ear infections, earwax buildup, or damage to the eardrum.
Differential testing
Differential testing for sensorineural hearing loss involves evaluating various aspects of hearing function to differentiate between sensorineural and conductive hearing impairments. This may include audiometry to assess hearing thresholds, speech discrimination testing to measure the ability to understand speech, and tympanometry to evaluate middle ear function.
Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing can assess the function of the cochlea. In some cases, auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing is used to assess the integrity of the auditory nerve pathways. These tests help audiologists identify the underlying cause of hearing loss and guide appropriate treatment and management strategies.
Tympanometry
Tympanometry is a diagnostic test used to assess the health and function of the middle ear. During the procedure, a small probe is placed in the ear canal, and air pressure is varied to measure the eardrum’s movement. This test helps identify conditions such as fluid buildup in the middle ear, eardrum perforations, or problems with the Eustachian tube. Tympanometry provides valuable information to audiologists for diagnosing and managing various ear-related disorders.
Audiometry
Audiometry is a key diagnostic test to evaluate hearing sensitivity and detect hearing loss. During an audiometry test, individuals wear headphones and listen to tones at different frequencies and volumes.
They signal when they hear the tones by pressing a button or raising their hand. The results are plotted on an audiogram, which graphically represents the softest sounds a person can hear at various frequencies.
Audiometry helps identify the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss, whether it’s conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. This information guides audiologists in developing personalized treatment plans, such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other interventions, to help individuals manage their hearing loss and improve their quality of life.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) can play a role in diagnosing sensorineural hearing loss by providing detailed images of the inner ear structures and surrounding tissues. It helps identify underlying anatomical abnormalities, such as tumors or lesions in the auditory nerve or cochlea, that may be contributing to hearing loss.
MRI can help detect other conditions affecting the auditory system, such as Meniere’s disease or vestibular schwannoma. By visualizing these structures, MRI assists healthcare providers in determining the underlying cause of sensorineural hearing loss and guiding appropriate treatment and management strategies tailored to the individual’s needs.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Prevention
Preventing sensorineural hearing loss involves minimizing exposure to loud noises and protecting the ears from potential damage. Individuals can use earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments such as concerts, construction sites, or when using power tools.
Limiting the duration and intensity of exposure to loud noises can also help prevent hearing loss. Regular hearing screenings and check-ups are important, especially for those frequently exposed to loud noise at work or during recreational activities.
Avoiding the use of headphones or earbuds at high volumes and taking breaks from prolonged noise exposure can help preserve hearing health. By adopting these preventive measures, individuals can reduce their risk of sensorineural hearing loss and maintain optimal hearing function throughout their lives.
How is sensorineural hearing loss treated?
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) can be treated through various approaches aimed at improving hearing function and addressing underlying causes. Treatment options may include hearing aids, which amplify sounds and improve speech comprehension, assistive listening devices, cochlear implants, and osseointegrated implants for individuals with severe or profound SNHL.
Brant Audiology & Tinnitus Clinic offers specialized services for individuals with SNHL, including comprehensive evaluations, audiometric testing, and personalized treatment plans. Their team of audiologists and hearing healthcare professionals works closely with patients to determine the most suitable interventions based on their unique needs and preferences.
Early intervention is crucial in treating SNHL, as it can help prevent further deterioration of hearing function and improve outcomes. Brant Audiology & Tinnitus Clinic emphasizes the importance of seeking treatment for SNHL as early as possible, as it offers the best chance of successful recovery and preservation of hearing health. By addressing SNHL promptly, individuals can maximize their chances of maintaining optimal hearing function and quality of life.
Is there a cure for sensorineural hearing loss?
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) currently has no cure, but hearing aids are often the most effective treatment option. Brant Audiology & Tinnitus Clinic specializes in providing comprehensive services for individuals with SNHL, offering expert evaluations, audiometric testing, and personalized treatment plans.
Our clinic is dedicated to improving the quality of life for those with SNHL by offering state-of-the-art hearing aids and assistive listening devices tailored to individual needs. We also provide ongoing support, counseling, and education to help individuals adapt to their hearing loss and maximize their communication abilities. While SNHL cannot be cured, our clinic strives to empower individuals with the tools and support they need to enhance their hearing and overall well-being.
