SSNHL is an ENT emergency where early treatment is critical, with HBOT recognised as an adjunct to standard treatment. At NUMA, we provide rapid assessment and same-day HBOT where appropriate.
SNHL stands for sensorineural hearing loss, the most common type of hearing loss affecting the inner ear. It occurs when there is damage to the sensory hair cells within the cochlea or the auditory nerve pathways that transmit sound signals from the inner ear to the brain.
The cochlea has a high metabolic demand and is particularly vulnerable to reduced oxygenation. HBOT increases oxygen availability to inner-ear tissues, supporting the physiological processes involved in recovery. Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss is a recognised indication for HBOT by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS), with HBOT used alongside corticosteroid therapy in appropriately selected patients.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials found that HBOT, when added to medical treatment, was significantly associated with improved hearing outcomes in patients with SSNHL.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery includes HBOT with steroids within 2 weeks of onset, and within 1 month as salvage treatment for SSNHL.
Earlier initiation of HBOT is associated with greater hearing improvement, with outcomes decreasing as the delay from symptom onset to treatment increases.
HBOT is used as an adjunct to, not a replacement for, urgent ENT assessment and standard medical treatment. Treatment suitability and individual outcomes vary.
A clinical review of the evidence, treatment timing and role of HBOT in sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Every patient is medically assessed before HBOT. Treatment is individually prescribed according to the timing and severity of hearing loss, clinical history and ongoing ENT management.
Started as early as possible to maximise the potential for hearing recovery alongside standard treatment.
May be considered when hearing recovery remains incomplete following initial treatment.
Evidence for benefit is more limited. Suitability for HBOT is assessed individually following medical review.
Treatment is tailored to each patient, with hearing response and ongoing ENT management guiding the course.
HBOT is a medical treatment that requires individual assessment and prescription to ensure it is safe, appropriate and tailored to your clinical needs. Your consultation with our specialist medical doctor includes:
Don’t just take our word for it. Hear directly from patients who have completed HBOT treatment for sensorineural hearing loss at NUMA.
Explore the clinical research on HBOT for sudden sensorineural hearing loss, including timing, evidence quality, outcomes and how it fits alongside standard medical care.
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A real-world example showing how HBOT may be used alongside ENT treatment, with a focus on timing, clinical decision-making and the patient pathway.
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Learn what happens during your consultation, how treatment suitability is assessed and what to expect from care delivered under medical oversight at NUMA.
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NUMA is a consultant-led specialist HBOT clinic focused exclusively on medical hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Our service combines medical oversight, personalised treatment planning and purpose-built facilities designed to support safe and high-standard care.
