Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is one of the most common and persisting types of hearing loss. This condition has affected millions of people worldwide. It commonly occurs due to some abnormality in the inner ear or the neural pathway. This neural pathway connects the ear to the brain, and even a minor issue in this pathway can directly affect a person’s hearing capability. In this blog, we will understand more about Sensorineural hearing loss, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

What is Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

Sensorineural Hearing Loss is a type of hearing problem or impairment that is caused by damage in the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve. Not like conductive hearing loss ( a hearing problem caused in the outer or middle ear), Sensorineural hearing loss affects the auditory nerve and inner ear which affects the sensory hair cells. This damage can cause the problem of partial or complete hearing loss, as it can impair the transmission of sound signals.

What are the Main Causes of Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

  • The inner part of the ear contains tiny hair cells or nerve endings, that transform sound into electric signals. Sensorineural hearing loss. When these electric signals are hampered by the tiny hair cells present in the ears, it causes hearing loss. However, there could be multiple reasons for this damage, such as:
    • 1.   Genetic Factors – In most cases, genetic factors are involved in causing sensorineural hearing loss. This damage is subjected to genetic mutations. These can be syndromic (associated with other symptoms) or non-syndromic (occurring alone).
    • 2.   Prenatal Factors – Sometimes, this problem is caused because of infections during pregnancy. Infections such as rubella or cytomegalovirus can affect the fetus at the developing stage and cause minor hearing loss. Moreover, additional diabetic problems or ototoxic drugs can also elevate the problem.

SNHL may develop in children or adults later in life as a result of:

  • Age-related hearing loss
  • Diseases related to blood vessels
  • Immune disease
  • Some infections such as meningitis, mumps, scarlet fever, and measles
  • Loud noise or sounds
  • Meniere disease
  • Tumors
  • A side effect of certain medicines
  • Working in a place with loud noises and sound.

What are the Symptoms Associated with Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

  • 1.   Difficulty in understanding conversations. Frequently asking to repeat the sentence
  • 2.   Muffled or distorted sound
  • 3.   People with SNHL experience tinnitus, a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound constantly in their ears without any external source
  • 4.   Damage to the inner ear can affect the vestibular system, leading to balance problems or dizziness.
  • 5.   People suffering from SNHL may experience hyperacusis. This is a condition of increased sensitivity wherein everyday sounds become painful and uncomfortable.
  • 6.   SNHL may occur suddenly sometimes and can cause partial hearing loss. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

How Can We Diagnose Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

SNHL diagnosis involves a comprehensive approach and may examine the following things:

  • 1.   A thorough review of the patient’s medical history, including any exposure to noise, ototoxic medications, infections, or family history of hearing loss.
  • 2.  A complete physical examination. This may include the examination of the ear, head, and neck. This comprehensive approach will help the examiner identify the intensity of the problem and other associated problems.
  • 3.   The examiner may also conduct some hearing tests like pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) to assess the type and degree of the problem.
  • 4.   In some major cases, the examiner might conduct an MRI or CT scan to check for further abnormalities in the sensory organs of the ear and brain.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Sensorineural Hearing Loss or SNHL?

Multiple treatment options are available for sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). This problem is other permanent but its side effects can be mitigated to manage and improve the quality of life.

  • 1.   Hearing Aids

  • The most common treatment for SNHL available medically is a hearing aid. These small electronic devices once attached to the affected person’s ear can amplify sound and can be modified as per the person’s hearing loss condition. Hearing aids are technologically advanced devices that also support communication patterns along with helping in hearing.

  • 2.   Cochlear Implants

  • For people with severe hearing problems who cannot benefit from hearing aids, another option for them is cochlear implants. A cochlear implant bypasses the damaged hair cells in the cochlea and directly stimulates the auditory nerve, allowing the user to perceive sound.

  • 3.   Medications and Surgery

  • If SNHL is caused by a certain infection, or as a side effect of some disease, some medicines may help reduce the symptoms and mitigate the problem. In cases like acoustic neuroma, or a benign tumor, surgery might be necessary.

  • 4.   Therapy

  • Some speech therapy or auditory therapy can help the one suffering to improve their communication skills and adapt to hearing loss.

Takeaway

Sensorineural hearing loss or SNHL is a complex hearing condition. It is necessary to understand and completely diagnose the problem. People suffering from SNHL don’t merely need treatment for their disability but also seek moral help. Consult a healthcare professional immediately to cure the problem.