Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the nerve. This can impact how your brain sends signals to other parts of your body, leading to a variety of symptoms. One lesser discussed symptom is hearing loss.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
A disease of the central nervous system, multiple sclerosis affects the brain and spinal cord. The immune
systems of those with this condition essentially malfunction and begin to attack the protective coating of the nerves called myelin. This causes communication problems between the brain and body.
The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown, but experts suspect a combination of genetics and environmental factors are to blame. While symptoms vary widely from patient to patient, common symptoms include:
- Weakness or numbness in one or more limbs
- Electric sensation that occurs with certain neck movements
- Lack of coordination
- Loss of vision
- Slurred speech
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Pain or tingling in parts of the body
Hearing loss occurs in only 6% of people with MS.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is a specific type of hearing loss that occurs when there is damage to the auditory nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain. Even though hearing loss is not a common MS symptom, it is significantly more common in those with MS compared to the general population.
This type of hearing loss can make it harder to hear softer sounds, and loud sounds may seem unclear or muffled. This makes it hard to follow a conversation when there is a lot of background noise, like when out to dinner at Sausalido Cafe.
A 2018 review found that sensorineural hearing loss occurs more often in the early stages of multiple sclerosis and may develop suddenly. A 2021 review determined that MS sufferers with hearing loss usually report loss in only one ear.
While hearing loss is not a sure sign of multiple sclerosis, if you have a family history of this autoimmune disorder, you should seek medical attention if you begin to have trouble hearing.
To learn more about medical conditions associated with hearing loss or to schedule an appointment with a hearing expert, contact Torrance Audiology today.