Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sudden hearing loss, often referred to as sudden deafness, is a rapid and unexplained loss of hearing, typically diagnosed by an ENT specialist (otolaryngologist). It usually affects one ear and can occur abruptly, either over a few hours or over several days.
HBOT is commonly used to treat idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL), a frequent form of hearing loss. The latest clinical practice guidelines from the American Academy of Otolaryngology support the use of HBOT in combination with steroid therapy. This treatment is fully covered by OHIP.
HBOT helps patients with hearing loss by:
- Delivering increased oxygen to the inner ear and nerve cells, which are believed to be damaged in ISSNHL cases
- Reducing swelling and inflammation in the inner ear and auditory nerve cells
- Boosting the body’s natural healing process
We collaborate closely with regional ENT specialists to ensure effective management of hearing loss.
How the process works:
Diagnosis of ISSNHL made by ENT specialist
Referral sent to Sudbury HBOT
Treatment started within 1-2 days
Ongoing evaluation of hearing changes
What is Idiopathic Sensorineural Hearing Loss?
Idiopathic Sensorineural Hearing Loss (ISSHL), commonly referred to as Sudden Hearing Loss, is a condition that rapidly affects the sensory organs of the inner ear, often without an identifiable cause. ISSHL can result in significant hearing impairment, but Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has proven to be an effective treatment. By supplying high levels of oxygen to the inner ear, HBOT aids in recovery and enhances hearing outcomes. Sudbury HBOT, serving Sudbury and Northern Ontario, provides specialized HBOT treatments to help patients with ISSHL on their path to recovery.
How is ISSHL Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Idiopathic Sensorineural Hearing Loss (ISSHL) requires a series of tests to determine the cause. A physician will first check for any obstructions, such as fluid or wax buildup in the ear. If no blockage is detected, pure tone audiometry is performed to assess hearing sensitivity across various frequencies. ISSHL is typically diagnosed when there is a hearing loss of at least 30 decibels, making normal speech sound like a whisper. An accurate diagnosis is crucial to starting effective treatments, such as Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), to support recovery.
Is Sudden Hearing Loss (ISSHL) Covered By OHIP?
Yes, idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) is one of the 14 conditions covered by OHIP for treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). This coverage ensures that patients diagnosed with ISSHL can access effective HBOT treatments without the worry of financial strain. At Sudbury HBOT, we offer comprehensive HBOT services to aid in the recovery of ISSHL patients, utilizing this coverage to provide the highest standard of care.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Treatment Works
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) accelerates healing for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) by delivering concentrated oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This therapy greatly increases oxygen flow to the inner ear, supporting healing and reducing ischemic damage. Enhanced oxygen diffusion through the cochlea promotes vascular recovery and tissue regeneration. Additionally, HBOT has antibacterial properties and stimulates angiogenesis, aiding overall tissue repair. When combined with corticosteroids, HBOT offers a well-rounded treatment approach, improving both full and partial hearing recovery in ISSHL patients by addressing the cochlea's critical oxygen needs.
The Benefits of HBOT Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) provides a range of benefits, especially in enhancing the healing process and improving recovery outcomes. Key advantages of HBOT include:
Accelerated Healing
HBOT enhances the body's natural healing process by increasing oxygen delivery to tissues, speeding up recovery and reducing inflammation.
Improved Tissue Oxygenation
In a pressurized environment, HBOT delivers pure oxygen more effectively, promoting quicker recovery and better outcomes for conditions such as ISSHL and chronic wounds.
Reduced Inflammation
HBOT plays a crucial role in lowering inflammation, aiding in the healing of severe injuries and chronic conditions.
Antibacterial Properties
The therapy helps prevent and treat infections by producing oxygen radicals that have antibacterial effects.
Angiogenesis and Tissue Regeneration
HBOT promotes angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels, and supports tissue regeneration, both vital for healing damaged areas.