Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss & HBOT

If you’ve experienced a sudden loss of hearing in one ear without warning, it can be a frightening experience. You might wake up unable to hear or notice a muffled sound or ringing that wasn’t there before. This condition—sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL)—requires immediate attention.

What Is Sudden Sensorineural (“Inner Ear”) Hearing Loss (SSHL)?

SSHL is an unexplained, rapid loss of hearing—typically in one ear—that happens within a 72-hour period. It’s caused by damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the nerve pathways between the ear and the brain. While the exact cause is often unknown, SSHL can sometimes result from viral infections, trauma, autoimmune conditions, or compromised blood flow to the auditory system. Prompt treatment is essential for the best possible recovery.

One of the most promising treatments for this condition is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), offered at 8th Element Hyperbaric Medicine in San Francisco. Most commercial insurance companies including Blue Shield, Anthem, Aetna and UnitedHealthcare provide coverage for SSHL.

Signs and Symptoms of SSHL:

Sudden hearing loss in one ear
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Ringing in the affected ear (tinnitus)
Dizziness or imbalance
Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
A sudden "pop" before hearing loss occurs
Sound distortion or muffled hearing

How HBOT Can Help Sudden Sensorineural (“Inner Ear”) Hearing Loss (SSHL)

Deliver Oxygen to Oxygen-Deprived Inner Ear Structures

SSHL is often linked to reduced blood flow or oxygen supply to the cochlea. In an HBOT session, you breathe 100% oxygen in a pressurized environment, which helps infuse oxygen directly into your bloodstream and inner ear tissues, even in areas with restricted circulation. This oxygenation can revive damaged cells and improve auditory nerve function.

Reduce Inflammation and Swelling in the Auditory System

Inflammation in the inner ear or surrounding nerve pathways can impair sound transmission and worsen hearing loss. HBOT reduces inflammation by enhancing natural anti-inflammatory responses. This may relieve pressure on auditory structures and promote faster recovery.

Enhances the Effectiveness of Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are the standard initial treatment for SSHL. Studies show that HBOT can work synergistically with steroids, enhancing their ability to reduce inflammation and support nerve repair. When used together within a short window of symptom onset (ideally within two weeks), the chances of hearing recovery are significantly improved.

Stimulate Healing Through Angiogenesis

The cochlea is a highly vascular structure that relies on a constant supply of oxygen-rich blood. HBOT stimulates angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels, to restore oxygen supply to damaged areas. Improved microcirculation within the cochlea supports tissue repair and enhances auditory nerve regeneration.

Why Choose 8th Element Hyperbaric Medicine for HBOT?

At 8th Element Hyperbaric Medicine, we offer fast, effective access to advanced HBOT, with no waiting list and appointments available 7 days a week. Our multi-place chamber ensures comfortable treatments for multiple individuals simultaneously, overseen by a medical team.

We're conveniently located in a free-standing medical arts building with ample free parking, and we're proud to accept Medicare along with most other insurance plans. Schedule your consultation and learn how HBOT can support your hearing recovery.