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Sensorineural hearing loss and the connection to aging

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WoM Hearing Loss and Aging (1)Hearing loss is a natural part of the aging process, and many individuals will experience some degree of hearing impairment as they grow older. One of the most common types of age-related hearing loss is sensorineural hearing loss. Let's delve into the reasons why aging can lead to sensorineural hearing loss.

Have you ever had your carpet cleaned? Take a moment to imagine opening a front door to a large living room with light grey carpeting throughout that hasn’t had a proper cleaning in many years. It won’t take long to notice that the path from the entryway to the next room is noticeably more broken in than the rest of the area. Just like the living room, the landscape of your inner ear is carpeted with inner hair cells.

Once enough hair cells are damaged or die due to heavy auditory traffic, hearing and the ability to understand speech sounds (especially in background noise) start to deteriorate, AKA: “hearing loss”. This auditory “foot traffic” wears down those hair cells. Once a hair cell dies, there is no resurrection.

The longer you’re alive, the more wear and tear on those hair cells. The more unprotected exposure to noise you endure, the more wear and tear too. You don’t need to be elderly to experience hearing loss; you just need a lot of auditory foot traffic.

What is Sensorineural Hearing Loss?

Sensorineural hearing loss, often referred to as "nerve deafness," occurs when there is damage to the hair cells in the inner ear or to the auditory nerve itself. These hair cells are responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain. When they become damaged or die off, it can result in permanent hearing loss.

The Role of Aging

  1. Cellular Degeneration: Over time, the cells within the inner ear naturally degenerate as part of the aging process. These cells are responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that the brain can interpret. As they become less efficient or die off, the brain receives fewer signals, leading to hearing impairment.

  2. Cumulative Exposure to Noise: Most people are exposed to various levels of noise throughout their lives. Over decades, cumulative exposure to loud noises can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, contributing to sensorineural hearing loss as they age.

  3. Blood Circulation Changes: Age-related changes in the circulatory system can impact the blood supply to the inner ear. Adequate blood flow is essential for the health of the delicate structures responsible for hearing, and reduced blood flow can contribute to sensorineural hearing loss.

  4. Genetic Factors: Genetics can also play a role in sensorineural hearing loss. If you have a family history of age-related hearing impairment, you may be more susceptible to it yourself.

  5. Free Radical Damage: Free radicals, unstable molecules in the body, can cause damage to the cells of the inner ear. As we age, our bodies may become less efficient at neutralizing free radicals, making the inner ear more vulnerable to damage.

  6. Medications and Toxins: Long-term use of certain medications and exposure to toxic substances throughout one's life can contribute to sensorineural hearing loss, with the effects becoming more pronounced as we age.

  7. Inflammatory Conditions: Chronic inflammatory conditions that affect the ear or the body in general can accelerate the degeneration of the inner ear structures.

Age-related sensorineural hearing loss is a complex condition influenced by various factors, both internal and external. While it is a natural part of the aging process, it is not inevitable, and steps can be taken to mitigate its impact. Regular hearing check-ups, avoiding excessive noise exposure, and adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and exercise can help preserve your hearing as you age.

Understanding the underlying causes of age-related sensorineural hearing loss is the first step toward better management and intervention. With advancements in hearing technology and increased awareness, individuals can seek appropriate solutions to maintain their hearing health and enjoy a fulfilling quality of life, even as they grow older. 

Noticing changes in your hearing as you age? Schedule a free 15-minute virtual consultation with a BLUEMOTH audiologist to discuss whether our solutions can enhance your quality of life.