What is Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

While it may not be a term you’re familiar with, sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of hearing impairment and can affect people of all ages.

Knowing what type of hearing loss you have is key for finding the best solution to meet your hearing needs, communication goals and lifestyle – and that’s where the Hear and Say Audiology team is here to help.

Sensorineural hearing loss can be sudden or gradual, and occurs due to damage of the tiny hair cells in the inner ear (cochlea), or when the auditory pathways to your brain aren’t properly functioning. Specific causes can range from the natural ageing process or genetics, through to head injury or exposure to loud noise or even some medical treatments such as chemotherapy.

The effects of sensorineural hearing loss can range from finding some sounds softer or difficult to understand, through to complete hearing loss. Although permanent once any damage is done, experiencing further loss to your hearing can often be preventable and treatable.

“It’s very common as we all get older that we would naturally start to see changes to our hearing due to sensorineural hearing loss,” said Hear and Say Audiologist, Georgia Cambridge.

“However, with the right hearing aid technology, we can work to optimise and protect the hearing someone still has, and prevent any further damage.

“That’s why acting early is very important to ensure you’re not letting your hearing loss lead to withdrawing from your friends and family or impacting your confidence and mental health.”