Hearing loss, specifically nerve-related hearing loss, is a common condition that occurs when there is damage to the auditory nerve or the inner ear. This type of hearing loss is known as sensorineural hearing loss. A range of factors, including genetics, exposure to loud noises, and certain medical conditions, can cause it.

It is typically permanent, but there are some cases where it can be improved or reversed. In this blog post, we will examine the various factors that can impact the progression of this type of hearing loss and discuss treatment options that can help improve or restore hearing.

What Causes Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

It can be caused by various factors, including genetics, noise exposure, and medical conditions. Some common causes of this type of hearing loss include:

Genetics

It can be inherited from a person's parents. It is more common in certain families and can be present at birth or develop later in life.

Noise Exposure

Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as those found in construction sites or concerts, can damage the hair cells in the inner ear and lead to sensorineural hearing loss.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as Meniere's disease, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes, can increase the risk of developing this kind of hearing loss.

Ageing

As we age, the hair cells in the inner ear can become damaged, leading to sensorineural hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is often referred to as "age-related hearing loss."

Can Sensorineural Hearing Loss Get Better?

In most cases, it is permanent and cannot be reversed. However, there are some situations where it is possible to improve or restore hearing.

Medical Treatment

In some cases, medical treatment can help improve this hearing loss. For example, if an infection or inflammation causes hearing loss, antibiotics or steroids may be prescribed to help resolve the underlying issue.

Cochlear Implants

Cochlear implants can be an effective treatment option for individuals with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss. Cochlear implants are electronic devices surgically implanted into the ear to help restore hearing. They convert sound waves into electrical signals and transmit them to the auditory nerve.

Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are small electronic devices that amplify sound and can help improve hearing in individuals. There are several different types of hearing aids available, including behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and in-the-canal models.

Assistive Listening Devices

Assistive listening devices, such as amplifiers and personal listening systems, can also help improve hearing in individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. These devices amplify sound and make it easier to hear in noisy environments.

It's important to note that the effectiveness of these treatments will vary depending on the severity of the hearing loss and the underlying cause. It's always best to discuss the most appropriate treatment option with a healthcare professional.

Preventing Sensorineural Hearing Loss

You can take several steps to reduce your risk of developing sensorineural hearing loss to prevent it from worsening. These include:

Protecting your ears from loud noises

Avoid exposing your ears to loud noises whenever possible, and consider wearing earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments.

Wearing earplugs or earmuffs

If you work in a noisy environment or are planning to attend a concert or other loud event, consider wearing earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears from excessive noise.

Getting regular hearing screenings

Regular hearing screenings can help identify hearing loss early on, allowing for early treatment and intervention.

Avoiding ototoxic medications

Some medications, such as certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can harm the ear and increase the risk of hearing loss. Discuss the potential side effects with your healthcare professional if you are taking any medications.

Managing chronic medical conditions

If you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it's important to manage it properly to reduce your risk of hearing loss.

Coping with Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Adjusting to hearing loss can be challenging, but several strategies can help individuals cope with hearing loss. These include:

Using assistive listening devices

As mentioned above, assistive listening devices can help amplify sound and make hearing easier in noisy environments.

Using lip reading and other visual cues

Lip reading and other visual cues, such as facial expressions and hand gestures, can help individuals communicate more effectively.

Using written communication

In some cases, written communication may be more effective than verbal communication.

Seeking support

Joining a support group or working with a counsellor can help individuals cope with the emotional impact of hearing loss. By using these strategies and seeking support, individuals can learn to manage their hearing loss and continue to lead active and fulfilling lives.

Take Control of Your Hearing Today

Are you struggling with sensorineural hearing loss? Don't let it hold you back any longer. Our team at Carlow Hearing is here to help you regain your hearing and improve your quality of life. From medical treatment and cochlear implants to hearing aids and assistive listening devices, we have various treatment options to suit your needs.

Schedule a hearing assessment with us today and take control of your hearing!