Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Best Treatments in Maharashtra

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Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Understanding, Diagnosis & Treatment

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is one of the most common types of hearing loss, affecting millions worldwide. It occurs when the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve is damaged, making it difficult for sound signals to reach the brain. Unlike some other types, SNHL is usually permanent, but with modern treatments, people can still enjoy clear communication and better hearing.

At VR Speech and Hearing Clinic, our audiologists provide advanced diagnostic tests and personalized hearing solutions to help patients manage and overcome sensorineural hearing loss effectively.

What Is Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

Sensorineural hearing loss happens when the tiny hair cells in the cochlea or the auditory nerve become damaged. These cells convert sound waves into signals that the brain interprets as sound. When damaged, sound clarity decreases—even if the volume is sufficient.
SNHL can affect one or both ears and range from mild to profound, depending on the extent of the damage.

Causes of Sensorineural Hearing Loss

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Sensorineural hearing loss can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed later in life).

1. Congenital Causes

  • Genetic factors – inherited hearing disorders.

  • Infections during pregnancy – such as rubella or cytomegalovirus.

  • Birth complications – premature birth, oxygen deprivation, or low birth weight.

2. Acquired Causes

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    Aging (Presbycusis): Gradual hearing loss due to aging.

  • Noise exposure: Long-term exposure to loud noise at work or concerts.

  • Ototoxic medications: Certain antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs can damage the ear.

  • Head injuries: Trauma can affect the inner ear or hearing nerve.

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    Infections: Mumps, meningitis, or measles can cause permanent hearing damage.

  • Meniere’s disease: Causes hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness.

  • Acoustic neuroma: A benign tumor on the hearing nerve.

Symptoms of Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Common signs of SNHL include:

  • Difficulty hearing soft or high-pitched sounds.

  • Trouble understanding speech in noisy places.

  • Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus).

  • Difficulty following phone conversations.

  • Voices or sounds seeming muffled or unclear.

  • Sensitivity to loud sounds (hyperacusis).

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to consult a qualified audiologist for proper diagnosis.

Diagnosis of Sensorineural Hearing Loss

At VR Speech and Hearing Clinic, we perform a detailed hearing evaluation using:

  1. Pure-Tone Audiometry: Determines hearing thresholds across frequencies.

  2. Speech Audiometry: Measures speech understanding ability.

  3. Otoacoustic Emission (OAE): Tests cochlear hair cell function.

  4. Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR): Evaluates nerve and brainstem response.

  5. MRI/CT Scans: To detect inner ear or nerve abnormalities.

Our expert audiologists interpret these tests to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your hearing needs.

Treatment Options for Sensorineural Hearing Loss

While SNHL is often permanent, modern technology and therapy can significantly improve hearing outcomes.

1. Digital Hearing Aids

Smart hearing aids amplify sound clearly and reduce background noise.
VR Speech offers devices from leading brands like Phonak, Signia, ReSound, and Widex.

2. Cochlear Implants

For severe or profound hearing loss, cochlear implants bypass damaged hair cells to directly stimulate the hearing nerve.

3. Bone-Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHA)

Ideal for people who can’t use conventional hearing aids due to ear canal or middle ear issues.

4. Auditory Rehabilitation & Speech Therapy

Personalized training to help the brain adapt to amplified sound and improve speech clarity.

5. Tinnitus Management

Sound therapy and counseling to reduce the perception of ringing or buzzing sounds.

Preventing Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Protect your hearing with these preventive measures:

  • Use ear protection in noisy environments.

  • Keep music volume moderate when using headphones.

  • Avoid prolonged noise exposure.

  • Have regular hearing check-ups, especially after age 40.

  • Live a healthy lifestyle—manage blood pressure, diabetes, and avoid smoking.

Living with Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Adapting to life with hearing loss becomes easier with the right approach:

  • Educate family and friends about your hearing needs.

  • Use visual cues and lip-reading.

  • Join hearing support groups.

  • Explore assistive devices and mobile apps that enhance communication.

At VR Speech and Hearing Clinic, we provide complete care—from diagnosis to rehabilitation—ensuring that every patient regains confidence in hearing and communication.

Visit VR Speech and Hearing Clinic

We’re here to help you rediscover the joy of hearing clearly.

📍 Our Branches:

  • Ahmednagar (Ahilyanagar): Shop No. 3, Vitthal Apartment, Pipeline Road Chowk, Opp. Parvati Corner, Bhistabag, Maharashtra 414003.

  • Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad): 2nd Floor, Vasantrao Naik Chowk, Opp. Hotel Deepali Executive, N-3, CIDCO, Maharashtra 431003.

  • Pune (Wakad): Cross Road Building, Shivganga Arcade, Shop 8 / 1st Floor, Bhumkar Chowk, Bengaluru–Mumbai Highway, Pune, Maharashtra 411057.

🦻 Branches also available across Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Ahilyanagar, and Ahmednagar.

Conclusion

Sensorineural hearing loss may be permanent, but with advanced hearing technology and professional care, it doesn’t have to limit your life.
At VR Speech and Hearing Clinic, our expert audiologists provide free hearing tests, advanced diagnostics, and the latest digital hearing aids to suit your needs.

📞 Call 9112717179 to book your free hearing test today and take the first step toward better hearing!

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