Everything You Need to Know About Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the most common type of hearing loss, affecting millions globally. It occurs when the inner ear or auditory nerve experiences damage, disrupting sound transmission to the brain. This comprehensive guide explains SNHL, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options to help you understand and manage this condition effectively.

A diagram shows the outer, middle and inner parts of the ear.

How the Ear Processes Sound

Sound waves travel through the ear canal, causing the eardrum to vibrate. These vibrations pass through three small bones in the middle ear, reaching the cochlea in the inner ear. The cochlea contains tiny hair cells that convert sound vibrations into nerve signals sent to the brain. Damage to the cochlea or auditory nerve leads to sensorineural hearing loss.

Symptoms of Sensorineural Hearing Loss

SNHL symptoms can vary based on severity and onset speed. Common hearing loss symptoms include:

  • Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.
  • Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds.
  • Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears).
  • Sounds seeming muffled or distorted.
  • Dizziness or balance issues.

If symptoms develop suddenly, consult a hearing care provider immediately. Early intervention improves outcomes.

A Venn diagram shows the causes of the different types of hearing loss.

Causes of Sensorineural Hearing Loss

SNHL results from various factors, both congenital and acquired:

Congenital Causes

  • Genetics: Genetic mutations affect inner ear structures.
  • Infections: Diseases like rubella during pregnancy can damage hearing.
  • Birth complications: Oxygen deprivation or premature birth.

A hand holds several different types of medication.

Acquired Causes

  • Aging (Presbycusis): Natural wear and tear on inner ear cells.
  • Noise Exposure: Sounds over 85 decibels damage hair cells.
  • Medications: Certain drugs, like chemotherapy agents, harm auditory function.
  • Infections or Trauma: Conditions like meningitis or head injuries.
  • Diseases: Meniere’s disease and autoimmune disorders.

Understanding the cause is essential for effective treatment planning.

Find out more about medicines that can cause hearing loss. 

Types of Sensorineural Hearing Loss

SNHL manifests in different forms:

  • Bilateral: Affects both ears, often due to aging or loud noise exposure.
  • Unilateral: Affects one ear, caused by tumors or sudden noise.
  • Asymmetrical: Greater hearing loss in one ear than the other.

These variations highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosing Sensorineural Hearing Loss

A hearing care provider uses several tests to diagnose SNHL:

  1. Physical Exam: Identifies visible ear issues.
  2. Tuning Fork Tests: Differentiates SNHL from conductive hearing loss.
  3. Audiogram: Measures hearing sensitivity across frequencies.
  4. Imaging: MRI or CT scans detect underlying conditions.

Prompt diagnosis ensures timely and effective treatment.

Treatment Options for Sensorineural Hearing Loss

While SNHL cannot be reversed, treatments can improve hearing and quality of life:

Hearing Aids

  • Amplify sounds to enhance hearing.
  • Customizable for specific frequency loss.

Cochlear Implants

  • Suitable for severe cases.
  • Bypass damaged hair cells to stimulate the auditory nerve directly.

Medication

  • Steroids: Treat sudden SNHL by reducing inflammation.
  • Effective when administered promptly.

Assistive Devices

  • Personal amplifiers and wireless microphones improve sound clarity in specific settings.

Preventing Sensorineural Hearing Loss

While some causes of SNHL are unavoidable, you can take steps to minimize risk:

  1. Protect Your Ears:
  2. Maintain Overall Health:
    • Manage chronic conditions like diabetes.
    • Avoid ototoxic medications when possible.
  3. Get Regular Hearing Tests:
    • Early detection helps prevent further damage.

Adopting these habits can safeguard your hearing.

Living with Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Adjusting to life with SNHL involves practical strategies and emotional support. Hearing aids and assistive devices can restore communication and help you stay connected. Explore technology solutions like personal amplifiers to enhance sound clarity in various settings.

Educating your loved ones about your hearing needs fosters understanding and reduces frustration during conversations. Joining local or online support groups can provide valuable insights and emotional encouragement.

Adopting healthy hearing habits and staying proactive with hearing care visits ensures the best quality of life despite SNHL challenges.

Ready to Take Action?

If you suspect sensorineural hearing loss, consult a hearing care provider. Our team provides personalized care to help you hear and live better. Contact Stanford Hearing today to schedule your hearing evaluation!