Health Topics for Hearing

Department of Otolaryngology

Otolaryngology Clinics

Hearing Loss: Sensorineural

Sensorineural hearing loss is more common in adults than children. This type of loss occurs when there is damage to the structures of the inner ear, or damage to the auditory nerve that sends those impulses from the inner ear to the brain. It is usually not reversible, but can often be helped with hearing aids.

Some causes of sensorineural hearing loss are:

• injury

• noise

• infection or disease

• medicines and

• aging

Most nerve deafness in children is present at birth. This type of hearing loss may be due to such factors as:

• genetics

• prematurity

• infection or

• specific illnesses of the mother during pregnancy, such as German measles and

• medications given to the mother

Early detection of children with nerve deafness is important, because language skills are based on hearing ability.

Identification of adults with this type of hearing loss is critical, as well. Assistive devices may help reduce their sense of isolation, frustration, and depression.

Hearing loss can be gradual or sudden. The natural aging process also may cause hearing loss. Because hearing loss is often gradual, many adults are not aware of its presence. Rather, they may feel that people just do not speak clearly. Noise exposure is often responsible for loss of hearing, especially in the male population. Meniere's Disease is the third most common hearing disorder in adults. Symptoms include an off and on hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and balance problems.

If you suspect a hearing loss, contact your healthcare provider for a hearing test. A hearing test can determine the degree and type of hearing loss.

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