Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the most common type of permanent hearing loss and occurs when the inner ear, known as the cochlea, is damaged. It may be present at birth or develop later in life. SNHL may occur suddenly due to illness, head injury, or exposure to loud noise such as explosions, fireworks, industrial machinery, or prolonged headphone use. It can also develop gradually as a part of the normal aging process.
SNHL, particularly age-related hearing loss, is one of the most common hearing conditions affecting adults and typically develops between the ages of 50 and 70. People with SNHL often struggle to hear soft sounds, and even louder noises may seem muffled or unclear. Everyday situations such as conversations in restaurants, crowded places, or group settings can become especially challenging. Many people feel that others are mumbling or not speaking clearly, and many experience ringing, buzzing, or humming sounds in their ears.
The underlying cause of SNHL is damage to hair cells in the inner ear. These hair cells play a critical role in converting sound waves into electrical signals that the brain interprets as sound. Unfortunately, once damaged, these hair cells cannot repair or regenerate, making SNHL a permanent condition in most cases. A key feature of SNHL is that it affects high-pitched sounds first. While low-pitched vowel sounds remain audible and carry speech volume, high-pitched consonants, which gives speech clarity, are harder to hear. As a result, people may hear that someone is talking but struggle to understand the words, especially in group conversations.
In Nepal, hearing loss is relatively common and increases with age, similar to global patterns. Ear diseases and long-standing health conditions that contribute to hearing loss are frequently seen in clinical and community settings. However, detailed nationwide data specifically focused on SNHL, such as how many people are affected, at what ages, and how severe it is remain limited. Most existing information comes from general hearing loss estimates, studies focused on children, or small clinical samples. Although research efforts are ongoing, nationwide screening programs, including newborn hearing tests, and national hearing loss registries are not yet widely implemented in Nepal.
Although SNHL usually cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively. Hearing aids may help many people hear sounds more clearly, while cochlear implants may benefit those with severe hearing loss. When hearing loss happens suddenly, early medical treatment, often with medications, can sometimes restore part of the hearing. Preventing further damage by protecting the ears from loud noise is extremely important. While SNHL can be permanent, it does not mean the end of communication or a good quality of life. With early diagnosis, proper treatment, and timely care, many individuals can greatly improve their hearing, communication, and overall well-being.
