Sensorineural Hearing Loss Treatment in Littleton, CO
Sensorineural hearing loss is a type of hearing loss that is attributed to damage or dysfunction of the auditory nerve or the inner ear. A person with sensorineural hearing loss may experience difficulty hearing sounds or understanding speech.
This type of hearing loss can be mild, moderate, or severe and can affect either one or both ears. Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss.
Symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss
A person with sensorineural hearing loss may experience the following:
- Difficulty hearing sounds (especially in environments with substantial background noise)
- Hearing muffled or distorted speech
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)
- Difficulty understanding speech
What are the causes of sensorineural hearing loss?
The most common causes of sensorineural hearing loss include exposure to loud noise, genetics, aging, viral infections, head trauma, and certain medications (ototoxic).
What is sudden sensorineural hearing loss?
As the name implies, sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) occurs suddenly, usually in just one ear. It is often accompanied by ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and/or dizziness (vertigo).
SSHL is defined as a hearing loss of at least 30 decibels in three frequencies that occurs within a 72-hour time frame.
The cause of sudden sensorineural hearing loss is often unidentified, but it is usually attributed to autoimmune disorders, viral infections, circulatory problems, or inner ear damage from certain medications or trauma.
SSHL needs immediate medical attention, as early intervention is critical for the best possible outcome. Treatment for SSHL may include antiviral medications or steroids. In some cases, hearing aids or assistive listening devices may be recommended to improve hearing and communication.
Diagnosis and Treatment
A hearing evaluation typically confirms the presence of sensorineural hearing loss. The evaluation may include a physical examination of the ear and a hearing test.
Treatment options may include hearing aids, bone-anchored hearing aids, and cochlear implants.
What is the best treatment for sensorineural hearing loss?
The best treatment for sensorineural hearing loss greatly depends on the severity of the hearing loss and your individual needs and preferences.
Typically, hearing aids are the most popular and effective treatment option for mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss. However, for higher levels of sensorineural hearing loss, cochlear implants or bone-anchored hearing aids may be recommended.
Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are a popular treatment option for sensorineural hearing loss. These small, electronic devices work by amplifying sounds and can be programmed or customized to meet specific hearing requirements.
Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implants may be recommended for individuals with severe or profound sensorineural hearing loss that cannot seem to benefit from hearing aids. Cochlear implants work by bypassing the damaged parts of the inner ear and sending signals directly to the auditory nerve. This is an invasive procedure and not everyone can be a viable candidate for cochlear implantation.
Bone-Anchored Hearing Aids
Bone-anchored hearing aids are another type of hearing aid that is surgically implanted. It works by transmitting sound through the bone conduction mechanism.
Can You Fix Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
Generally, sensorineural hearing loss is irreversible, as it involves dysfunction or damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. While there is no cure for sensorineural hearing loss, there are various treatment options that can help manage the symptoms and improve hearing ability.
These treatment options include hearing aids, cochlear implants, and bone-anchored hearing aids.
We encourage seeking professional evaluation and treatment from an audiologist to determine the best course of action for your individual hearing needs.
How to Prevent Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Once hearing is compromised, you can never have it back to normal. This is why we highly emphasize the importance of protecting the integrity of your hearing.
Below are several steps that you can take to prevent sensorineural hearing loss from occurring or getting worse:
- Use proper hearing protection.
- Avoid exposure to loud noises.
- Limit the volume when listening to music through earbuds or headphones.
- Treat any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to hearing loss, such as diabetes or high blood pressure..
Columbine Hearing Care: Sensorineural Hearing Loss Treatment in Littleton, CO
Columbine Hearing Care is dedicated to helping you stay connected to people and moments that matter most, and we are able to do that through comprehensive and expert audiology services.
We provide diagnosis and management of sensorineural hearing loss and other auditory concerns you may have. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!