Sudden idiopathic hearing loss (SIHL), also known as Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL) is a sudden unexplained hearing loss of 30 decibels or more either at once or within a few days. The cause may be due to viral infections, biochemical alterations, cochlear artery occlusion or rupture of the intracochlear membranes.

 

SIHL is usually proceeded by a loud popping noise and usually occurs in one ear. SIHL is often accompanied by dizziness, balance issues, tinnitus (ringing in the ears). The sooner you seek treatment the better the outcome will be.

 

How can HBOT help Idiopathic hearing loss?

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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is the use of 100% oxygen and an increase of pressure. HBOT  can help decrease inflammation by oxygenating the body this helps stimulate the growth of new healthy blood vessels, and releases stem cells, up to 800% more after twenty sessions. 

 

Treatment of SIHL mainly focuses on improving blood flow and increasing oxygen supply in the inner ear.  ENT physicians typically treat SIHL with steroids.  However research has shown that patients who are treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in addition to steroids have a  significantly higher rate of recovery than those who are treated with steroids alone, including in patients with severe hearing loss (≥ 80 dB). It is important to note that there is a much a higher percentage of recovery if HBOT is done immediately after the incident.  

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Links to information on HBOT and Idiopathic hearing loss.

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https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/article-abstract/2704029

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https://bit.ly/3QjfDR4

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https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/518615

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