What causes sensorineural hearing loss?

Possible causes for sensorineural hearing loss include malformation of the inner ear, head injury or trauma, aging (presbyacusis), prolonged exposure to loud noises, high stress level and bacterial or virus infections. Neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, autoimmune diseases and Meniere’s disease cause damage in the inner ear, the cochlea, or the neural pathways  between the ear and the brain. There are different causes of sensorineural hearing loss, and yet in some cases, a cause may never be uncovered.

What are sensorineural hearing loss symptoms?

Symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss may include a reduction in hearing upon awakening or difficulty following group conversations. Inability to hear when background noise is present, balance problems and tinnitus (high frequency tone) are other symptoms often associated with sensorineural hearing loss.

What are the risk factors for sensorineural hearing loss?

Risk factors that may increase the risk of developing sensorineural hearing loss include: long term exposure to loud noise, age (affects 1 in 7 people above age 65), heredity, head trauma, infectious diseases and ototoxic medications.

How do doctors diagnose sensorineural hearing loss?

The doctors and audiologist at ENT in Cayman Ltd. diagnose sensorineural hearing loss through audiometry, which is a test that can show significant hearing loss in a patient and can distinguish between conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss. When an accurate diagnosis has been made patients are recommended appropriate treatment options by our specialists.

What is the treatment for sensorineural hearing loss?

Those who suffer from sensorineural hearing loss may not be able to regain their full hearing capacity, even with treatment. However, there are remedies to improve hearing and surgical procedures that may recover some hearing.

Doctors at ENT in Cayman Ltd. may recommend any of the following

treatment options, depending on the severity of the condition:

• hearing aids
• surgical operation (cochlea implant).

If you are suffering from sensorineural hearing loss, the first step is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor.

Click on the menu to access additional information about ENT conditions. To request an appointment, just complete our online booking form or, alternatively, call +1 (345) 745- (3253).