Types of hearing loss
Sensorineural hearing loss: causes, symptoms and treatment
Approximately one in six Australians experience hearing loss, with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) being the most common form of permanent hearing loss in adults. Its prevalence increases with age, and while it is generally irreversible, modern hearing technology can make a significant difference to everyday communication.
The short answer
What causes it?
Ageing accounts for a large share of cases, but in this region occupational noise is just as significant — mining, heavy machinery, workshops, firearms and cane harvesting all cause cumulative cochlear damage. Other causes include certain medications, some illnesses, sudden viral events and genetics.
How do I know if I have it?
Sensorineural hearing loss often develops gradually, with early signs including difficulty following conversations in background noise, missing parts of words or having to concentrate harder to understand what someone is saying. You might find yourself turning up the TV, struggling to hear clearly on the phone or missing what someone says when they're speaking from another room. Busy restaurants, family gatherings and conversations with multiple people can become particularly challenging. As hearing loss progresses, these difficulties often become more noticeable, even in quieter environments. Because the changes can happen slowly, family and friends may notice them before you do.
Can it be reversed?
Typically no. Once cochlear hair cells are damaged they do not regenerate, and there is no medication or surgery that restores them. That said, sudden sensorineural hearing loss — a noticeable drop over hours or days in one ear — is a medical emergency where prompt steroid treatment can help. If that describes you, see a doctor today, not next week.
How we treat it
A diagnostic hearing test establishes the degree and shape of the loss in each ear. From there, most people do well with hearing aids fitted and verified to their prescription, supported by communication strategies. A referral from a doctor can enable a Medicare rebate for the hearing assessment.
Signs that point to sensorineural loss
- Speech sounds mumbled or unclear rather than simply quiet
- Much greater difficulty in cafes, pubs and cars than in quiet rooms
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears alongside the hearing difficulty
- Mental fatigue after a day of conversation
Get a clear answer about your hearing
Independent audiology across Andergrove, Walkerston, Moranbah and Clermont.