Why Hyperbaric Oxygen Is Being Considered For Sudden Hearing Loss
Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) is a rapid, unexplained drop in hearing that often happens over hours to days. It is thought to be linked to low oxygen levels (hypoxia) in the inner ear, especially in the perilymph, scala tympani and the organ of Corti. Because of this, researchers and clinical bodies have become interested in hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sudden sensorineural hearing loss as a way to increase oxygen delivery to these delicate structures.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber to raise the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood. The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society now lists ISSHL as an approved indication for HBOT, reflecting a growing body of supporting clinical data.
What The Research Review Found
A review of the medical literature identified more than 100 publications on HBOT for ISSHL, including eight randomized controlled trials. Across these studies, the most consistent and meaningful improvements were seen when:
- HBOT was started within two weeks of the onset of hearing loss
- HBOT was combined with corticosteroid treatment, rather than used alone
On average, people with moderate hearing loss experienced a hearing gain of about 19.3 dB, while those with severe hearing loss improved by about 37.7 dB. This level of recovery can shift hearing from the moderate or severe impairment range into the slight or near normal range, which may make a real difference in daily communication and quality of life.
Reported adverse events related to HBOT in this context have generally been minimal in the reviewed studies, although any treatment choice should still be made under the guidance of a qualified clinician.
How To Interpret These Findings
Overall, the evidence suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy, particularly when combined with corticosteroids and started early, may significantly improve hearing outcomes in some people with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. At the same time, results can vary from person to person, and not every individual will experience the same level of benefit.
HBOT is best viewed as an evidence supported adjunctive option that can be added to standard medical care, rather than a guarantee of full recovery. Ongoing research continues to refine the ideal timing, treatment protocols and patient selection to achieve the best possible hearing outcomes.
Check out the PubMed article here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22670557/
