Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Sensorineural hearing loss refers to a type of hearing loss that occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. It can be caused by factors such as age, exposure to loud noises, genetic disorders, certain medications, and diseases.
Related terms
Presbycusis: Age-related hearing loss that occurs gradually over time.
Noise-induced hearing loss: Hearing loss caused by prolonged exposure to loud sounds.
Ototoxicity: Hearing loss caused by certain medications or chemicals that are toxic to the ears.