Neurological hearing loss, often called auditory neuropathy or neural hearing loss, occurs when there’s a disruption in how sound signals travel from the inner ear to the brain. Unlike typical sensorineural hearing loss—where hair cells in the cochlea are damaged—neurological hearing loss involves issues with the auditory nerve or how the brain processes sound.

Causes of Neurological Hearing Loss

Neurological hearing loss can stem from:

• Damage to the auditory nerve

• Neurodegenerative conditions (e.g. multiple sclerosis)

• Lack of oxygen at birth (in infants)

• Acoustic neuromas or tumors

• Auditory processing disorder (in the brain itself)

Can It Be Fixed?

“Fixed” is a strong word—most forms of neurological hearing loss are not curable in the traditional sense, but they can often be managed or improved with the right combination of technology and therapy.

1. Hearing Aids and NeuroTechnology™

Conventional hearing aids may be limited in cases of auditory neuropathy. However, NeuroTechnology™—which uses advanced signal processing and brain-based retraining—can help the brain better interpret sound patterns, even when the auditory nerve isn’t working properly. This is particularly helpful when cognitive auditory deficits are involved.

2. Cochlear Implants

For severe cases, cochlear implants may bypass the damaged parts of the auditory system entirely, sending signals directly to the brain. Some patients with auditory neuropathy respond very well to implants, especially children who receive early intervention.

3. Auditory Brain Training

Rehabilitation and cognitive-based auditory training programs can strengthen neural pathways related to hearing and comprehension. These are especially valuable for patients experiencing poor speech clarity despite normal hearing thresholds.

4. Treating Underlying Conditions

If the hearing loss is related to conditions like multiple sclerosis or tumors, treating the underlying condition can sometimes improve hearing outcomes or prevent further decline.

Conclusion

Neurological hearing loss cannot always be fully reversed, but with early diagnosis, specialized treatment like NeuroHearing™, and consistent therapy, many patients experience dramatic improvements in clarity and communication ability. A consultation with a NeuroHearing™ specialist is the first step to understanding your options.