Nerve deafness

Nerve Deafness or Sensorineural Hearing Loss is a type of hearing loss that occurs due to damage to the inner ear (cochlea), or to the nerve pathways from the inner ear to the brain.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Nerve deafness can be caused by several factors, including:

Aging: Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a common cause of nerve deafness.
Noise exposure: Long-term exposure to loud noise can damage the hair cells in the cochlea that transmit sound to the brain.
Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections can cause nerve deafness.
Genetic factors: Some people may be genetically predisposed to nerve deafness.
Ototoxic drugs: Certain medications can damage the inner ear, leading to nerve deafness.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of nerve deafness can vary depending on the cause and severity of the hearing loss. They may include:

Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds
Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Dizziness or balance problems

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Nerve deafness is diagnosed through a series of audiological tests, which may include pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and otoacoustic emissions testing.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for nerve deafness depends on the cause and severity of the hearing loss. Options may include:

Hearing aids: These devices amplify sound to help improve hearing.
Cochlear implants: These surgically implanted devices can help people with severe nerve deafness hear better.
Assistive listening devices: These devices can help improve hearing in specific situations, such as watching TV or talking on the phone.