The ear consists of outer, middle, and inner portions, and also includes an auditory nerve that relays sound in the form of electrical impulses from the ear to the brain. Damage to the structures of the inner ear, or the auditory nerve results in Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL).

What causes SNHL?

While some people are born with congenital problems that results in SNHL, incessant exposure to loud noises and age-related problems are the prime contributors that lead to this condition. In rare cases, infections or the body’s reaction to certain medications can also cause rapid hearing loss.

Treatment options for SNHL:

Based on the cause of the condition, the patients age, and the extent of damage to the auditory nerve and inner ear, the doctor may suggest the usage of a hearing aid, or cochlear implantation surgery. In the case of patients with partial hearing loss, the doctors may suggest alternate treatment to prevent the impairment from progressing.

While these treatment options cannot restore hearing completely, they certainly help people with comprehending sounds and communicating with the people around them.

It is said that deafness cuts people from other people, seeking treatment to recover hearing helps people connect with their loved ones, and enables better mental wellbeing, and significantly improves the standard of life.