Sensorineural Hearing Loss Treatment in Dallas, Frisco, and Fort Worth
What is Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL)?
Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ear or the nerve pathways that send sound to the brain. It affects the cochlea and auditory nerve, making it the most common and permanent form of hearing loss. While the damaged cells cannot regenerate, many patients can still hear with proper treatment and amplification devices.
Understanding Sensorineural Hearing Loss
There are three primary types of hearing loss—conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) accounts for over 90% of all hearing loss cases.
Inside your ear, the tiny hair cells in the cochlea convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that travel to your brain. When these cells or nerve pathways are damaged, hearing clarity and volume are reduced.
Symptoms of Sensorineural Hearing Loss
If you suspect you may be experiencing hearing loss, you may notice the following:
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Trouble distinguishing voices from background noise
- Feeling that people are mumbling or speaking unclearly
- More difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Increased sensitivity to loud sounds
- Frequently turning up the volume on your TV or phone
Early evaluation is key to preventing further complications.
What Are The Causes and Diagnosis For Sensorineural Hearing Loss
At Dallas Ear Institute, our expert providers take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing SNHL. Your evaluation may include:
- Medical history review and symptom discussion
- Physical ear examination
- Audiologic testing
- Nerve pathway testing when indicated
- Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans
Common causes include:
- Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis)
- Noise exposure from work, recreation, or loud environments
- Medication side effects (e.g., certain antibiotics, chemotherapy)
- Viral or infectious complications
- Balance disorders or inner ear diseases
- Genetic factors
What Are Treatment Options For Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Treatment varies depending on the cause and severity. While most SNHL is permanent, early intervention can dramatically improve communication and quality of life.
Your care team may recommend:
- Steroid therapy for sudden hearing loss
- Management of related conditions (e.g., infections, tumors)
- Hearing aids for mild to moderate loss
- Cochlear implants for profound hearing loss
- Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) to enhance hearing in specific environments
Why Choose Dallas Ear Institute in Dallas, Frisco, and Fort Worth
At the Dallas Ear Institute, our fellowship-trained otologists and audiologists specialize exclusively in ear and hearing disorders. With convenient locations in Dallas, Frisco, and Fort Worth, we provide comprehensive medical and surgical care—from diagnosis through advanced hearing restoration.
Each of our offices offers state-of-the-art technology and a compassionate, patient-centered approach to managing sensorineural hearing loss.
Take the First Step Toward Better Hearing
If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss symptoms, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with the Dallas Ear Institute in Dallas, Frisco, or Fort Worth today. Call 469-803-5555 to Request an Appointment Online to begin your journey toward clearer hearing and improved quality of life.