Rose Hearing Healthcare Centers provides sensorineural hearing loss treatment in Hilton Head Island & Bluffton, SC.
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) happens when the inner ear or the nerve that sends sound signals to the brain is damaged. This type of hearing loss makes it hard to hear soft sounds and can make louder sounds seem unclear or distorted. SNHL is usually permanent because the tiny hair cells in the inner ear do not grow back once they are damaged.
Why Seeking Treatment Is Important
Untreated SNHL can make it harder to understand conversations, stay connected with others, and enjoy daily activities. It can also lead to frustration, social isolation, and even memory problems over time. Getting professional help can improve hearing, speech clarity, and overall well-being.
Symptoms of Sensorineural Hearing Loss
SNHL can develop slowly or happen suddenly. Common signs include:
- Difficulty hearing soft or whispered sounds
- Trouble understanding speech – People may sound like they are mumbling.
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Struggling to hear in noisy places like restaurants or group settings
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Hearing better in one ear than the other
- Feeling like sounds are muffled or far away
- Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds like children’s voices or birds
If you notice any of these symptoms, a hearing test can help determine if you have SNHL. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in how well you hear.
Causes of Sensorineural Hearing Loss
SNHL can be caused by different factors. Some of the most common causes include:
- Aging (Presbycusis) – Over time, the tiny hair cells in the inner ear wear down and stop working properly.
- Loud Noise Exposure – Repeated exposure to loud sounds (concerts, power tools, or loud music) can damage the inner ear.
- Genetics – Some people are born with SNHL or have a family history of hearing loss.
- Certain Medications – Some drugs, known as ototoxic medications, can damage the inner ear and cause hearing loss.
- Head Injuries – A strong blow to the head can harm the inner ear or the hearing nerve.
- Illnesses and Infections – Viruses, fevers, and autoimmune diseases can sometimes cause permanent hearing loss.
Understanding the cause of your SNHL can help your hearing aid specialist find the best for you.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Diagnosis and Treatment
At Rose Hearing Healthcare Centers, diagnosing SNHL begins with a hearing test. This test measures how well you hear different sounds and speech. If hearing loss is detected, our hearing aid specialists in Bluffton SC, and Hilton Head Island will discuss the best treatment options to help you hear better.
Treatment Options for SNHL
- Hearing Aids – These small devices amplify sound, making speech and other noises easier to hear. Modern hearing aids have advanced technology, including noise reduction and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Cochlear Implants – If hearing aids don’t help enough, a cochlear implant may be an option. This device bypasses the damaged inner ear and sends sound signals directly to the hearing nerve.
- Bone-Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHA) – A BAHA is attached to the bone behind the ear and helps people with single-sided deafness or mixed hearing loss.
Our hearing aid specialists will help determine the best treatment based on your hearing needs and lifestyle.
What Is the Best Treatment for Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
The best treatment depends on how much hearing loss you have.
- For mild to moderate SNHL, hearing aids are the best option.
- For severe SNHL, where hearing aids don’t help enough, cochlear implants may be recommended.
- For single-sided deafness or mixed hearing loss, a bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA) might be the best choice.
Your hearing aid specialist will work with you to find the right solution for your needs.
Can You Fix Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
Right now, there is no cure for SNHL because the tiny hair cells in the inner ear do not grow back once they are damaged. However, treatments like hearing aids and cochlear implants can help people hear better and improve their quality of life. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your brain can adjust to these devices.
How Do You Prevent Further Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
While SNHL cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to protect your hearing:
- Avoid loud noises – Use ear protection when around loud sounds like concerts or power tools.
- Turn down the volume – Keep music and TV at a safe listening level.
- Take listening breaks – If you use headphones, give your ears a break every hour.
- Check your medications – Some drugs can cause hearing loss. Ask your doctor if your medications are safe for your ears.
- Get regular hearing check-ups – Early detection can help slow hearing loss and improve treatment options.
Taking care of your ears today can help protect your hearing for years to come.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Treatment in Hilton Head Island & Bluffton, SC
At Rose Hearing Healthcare Centers, we understand how important hearing is to your daily life. Our team of hearing aid specialists is here to help with:
- Hearing tests to diagnose SNHL
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs
- Modern hearing aids and advanced hearing solutions
- Compassionate care focused on your well-being
If you or a loved one is struggling with hearing loss, don’t wait. Early treatment can make a huge difference in your hearing and quality of life.
Call us today to schedule a hearing test!