HBOT - ENT: Sensorineural hearing loss

Sudden hearing loss is a sensorineural hearing impairment or at times called as Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss – Idiopathic  meaning, causes unknown. Sudden hearing loss develops over a period of few hours to a few days.

Hearing loss is often accompanied by dizziness or ringing in the ear (tinnitus). Many recover without treatment, but swift medical attention increases the chances for partial or full restoration of hearing. Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is treated as a medical emergency.

Hearing loss is treated with drugs that provide better blood supply to the inner ear and decrease inflammation. Researchers have confirmed a strong association with circulatory problems or lack of oxygen in the inner ear. Other possible causes include heredity, viral and bacterial infection, toxins and other factors.

In the face of limited treatment options, surprising research findings have recently revealed success with a new treatment for sudden idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss: Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy (HBOT). 

The beneficial effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on sudden sensorineural hearing loss are probably achieved by an increase in the distribution of oxygen dissolved per volume unit of blood circulating trough the regions affected by the lack of oxygen.

HBOT increases oxygen tension in the blood and tissues and dissolves extra oxygen in the blood plasma to better supply the structures, fluids, and nerves of the inner ear. Physicians may prescribe HBOT in conjunction with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and swelling. Hyperbaric oxygen has not been shown to be helpful in treating tinnitus or chronic hearing loss beyond 6 months.

In the supporting medical literature, dosages generally ranged from 2.0 ATA to 2.5 ATA, for 60 to 90 minutes, once or twice daily, with 5 to 20 total treatments.

If you or a loved one experiences a sudden hearing loss, please visit your doctor immediately. With hyperbaric oxygen treatment, the hope of hearing recovery is better than ever before.

References:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221618916300701

http://www.hsj.gr/medicine/the-clinical-efficacy-of-hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy-in-idiopathic-sudden-sensorineural-hearing-loss-and-tinnitus.php?aid=8303