Also known as sensorineural hearing loss, inner ear hearing loss can impact a person’s relationships, career, and overall quality of life. While it can depend on the cause of hearing loss, certain medications can help mitigate symptoms.
Many people with inner ear hearing loss receive assistive devices such as hearing aids. Some people may require surgery to address physical issues contributing to hearing loss. Other issues can be corrected with corticosteroids, which are medications that help reduce swelling.
These medications are effective when exposure to loud noises has inflamed the inner ear. They can also treat swelling within cochlear hair cells. Corticosteroid medications can be taken orally, but they can also be injected directly via the ear drum.
Medication can also be effective when treating Ménière’s disease, which is an inner ear disorder associated with hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and vertigo. Ménière’s disease causes fluid to accumulate within the ear, which can be relieved by taking diuretics. Medications that treat motion sickness can also help reduce the effects of vertigo.
Many people with sensorineural hearing loss require additional treatment, which can include:
People with inner ear hearing loss can also benefit from lifestyle adjustments. Limit background noise as much as possible, as extraneous noise can make it more difficult to hear clearly. Additionally, be sure to let others know about your hearing loss so they can speak clearly and distinctly in your presence.