If you are developing hearing problems, you might have sensorineural hearing loss. This is the most common type of hearing loss, and it is caused by damage to the inner ear, or to the nerves or brain cells that process sound. Although it’s impossible to reverse, you need to learn how to recognize sensorineural hearing loss, because you can stop it from developing further.
What Causes Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
Sensorineural hearing loss can be sudden – for example, it can be caused by nerve damage due to injury. On the other hand, it may develop gradually as the tiny hair cells in your inner ear become less sensitive.
Some people have sensorineural hearing loss since birth due to genetic factors. But it usually develops later in life, especially in old age. You might be at an increased risk of sensorineural hearing loss if you are regularly exposed to loud noises. Taking certain types of medication will increase your risk too. Infections and certain illnesses can cause it as well.
How to Recognize Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
In the early stages, this type of hearing loss has the following effects:
- You feel dizzy or experience a ringing in the ears.
- Lower voices become easier to hear. For example, you tend to hear men’s voices more easily than women’s.
- It gets harder to follow several conversations at once. Additionally, you can’t filter out background noise as easily as before.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, you should seek medical advice.
Can You Treat Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
Sensorineural hearing loss is permanent. However, you may be able to stop it from getting worse if you recognize the symptoms in time. This usually means that you need to decrease your exposure to loud noises.
Additionally, hearing aids are an option for most people who have sensorineural hearing loss. Even though they won’t restore your hearing, these devices can help get your life back on track.
