Noise. Exposure

to moderate levels of noise over a long period of time, or to brief high-intensity

sounds, can lead to sensorineural hearing loss. As with presbycusis, the

loss usually develops very gradually, although instantaneous loss can

occur from sudden high-impact sounds, such as an explosion. The loss is

often accompanied by tinnitus (ringing, hissing or other noises

in the ear). Sources of toxic noise levels include hunting, lawnmowers,

motorcycles and personal stereo headsets. Music, whether Bach or rap,

is also a common cause of noise-induced hearing loss and professional

musicians have a higher incidence of hearing loss than the general population.

Genetics.

Inherited sensorineural hearing loss can occur at any age, from birth

to adulthood. The genetic cause can be either recessive or dominant .

In cases of recessive hereditary hearing loss, both parents may be carriers

of the gene, but not have hearing loss themselves. The loss may be progressive,

but often stabilizes at a certain level.

Sensorineural

hearing loss is one of the easiest to correct with hearing aids. About

95 percent of people who get help for their hearing loss have nerve damage

or sensorineural hearing loss.

Andrew Waits

Clinical audiologist

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