Hearing loss is a common sensory impairment that affects to an extensive extent many aspects of the patients’ daily life. Sensorineural hearing loss accounts for the majority of cases of permanent hearing loss, especially in the adult population. This condition is characterized by damage to the inner ear and more specifically to the capillary cells of the cochlea or the auditory nerve. This type of hearing loss is typically permanent and can range from mild to severely extensive. It is characterized by difficulty hearing soft sounds, understanding speech in noisy environments and discriminating between different frequencies.
Sensorineural hearing loss: Causes
Sensorineural hearing loss can result from a wide range of causes. Some people may be born with it (congenital sensorineural hearing loss). Of course, genetic factors and more specifically hereditary gene mutations are involved in its manifestation. Presbyacusis, the age-related degeneration of the structures of the inner ear, is also a common cause of this form of hearing loss, especially in the elderly. Prolonged exposure to loud noises, whether at work or during recreational activities, can lead to hearing loss. Head injuries or barotrauma from rapid changes in pressure can cause this form of hearing loss.
Some ototoxic drugs, such as aminoglycoside antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can damage the hair cells in the inner ear. Serious infections such as meningitis or mumps can lead to sensorineural hearing loss if they affect the auditory system. Disorders such as Meniere’s disease or autoimmune inner ear disease can lead to this form of hearing loss. Viral infections of the inner ear, vascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, acoustic neuroma can cause hearing loss. Finally, benign or malignant tumors in the ear or auditory nerve can cause this particular form of hearing loss.
Diagnosis of this particular form of hearing loss
Accurate diagnosis of sensorineural hearing loss is essential for effective management of the condition and improvement of the patient’s quality of life. The first step in the diagnosis is the clinical examination, in which otoscopy plays a dominant role. This makes it easier to inspect the ear to find any issues affecting the condition of the ear. In order to establish hearing loss, a complete audiological examination is necessary. More specifically, it is important to perform an audiogram, a tympanogram and a test of auditory reflexes. The above tests help to ascertain both the type and the extent of the hearing loss.
Sensorineural hearing loss: Options for successful management
The management of sensorineural hearing loss depends on the underlying cause, the type and degree of hearing loss, the conditions and lifestyle requirements of the patient, and the patient’s age. Treatment options may include medication, hearing aids, or surgery.
In some cases, especially when sensorineural hearing loss results from infections or autoimmune disorders, medications may be prescribed. Medication is also administered for tinnitus treatment, but in all these cases medication does not restore hearing loss per se.
The most common option for the management of sensorineural hearing loss is the fitting of hearing aids. These devices can amplify sound waves and improve auditory perception. In fact, each pair of headphones is adjusted accordingly to perfectly suit the needs of each patient. In more serious cases, however, they are not enough. Then, the surgical implantation of either one or two cochlear implants is indicated. Cochlear implants bypass the damaged hair cells of the inner ear by directly stimulating the auditory nerve and ultimately the brain through the production of electrical impulses.
Sensorineural hearing loss is a complex form of hearing loss that can result from a variety of causes, including genetic factors, noise exposure, infections, and medications. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to mitigate its impact on the quality of life of affected individuals. It is important that people who become aware that their hearing is deteriorating seek medical advice immediately. The sooner a causative factor causing hearing loss is found, the more successful the initial implementation of management measures will be. ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou correctly diagnoses the type and degree of hearing loss and implements the appropriate treatment plan.