Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Sherman Oaks & Calabasas

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) is a medical emergency involving rapid, unexplained hearing loss that typically occurs in one ear. Prompt evaluation and treatment are critical to improving the likelihood of hearing recovery.

At OxygenWell, we provide medical-grade Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) as an adjunctive treatment for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss, serving patients in Sherman Oaks and Calabasas with evidence-based care aligned with FDA and UHMS guidelines.

What Is Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL)?

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss is defined as a rapid loss of hearing of 30 decibels or more across at least three consecutive frequencies, occurring over 72 hours or less.

SSNHL affects the inner ear, cochlea, or auditory nerve and is distinct from conductive hearing loss caused by earwax or middle-ear fluid.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of SSNHL may include:

Sudden hearing loss in one ear

Muffled or distorted sound perception

Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)

A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear

Dizziness or vertigo

Balance disturbances

Why Sudden Hearing Loss Occurs

In many cases, the exact cause of SSNHL is unknown. Potential contributing factors include:

Reduced blood flow to the cochlea
Inner ear hypoxia (low oxygenlevels)
Inflammation or viral injury
Microvascular compromise
Autoimmune processes
Ototoxic injury

The inner ear has a high metabolicdemand and limited blood supply, making it particularly vulnerable tooxygen deprivation.

Why Hearing May Not Recover Without Intervention

When oxygen delivery to the inner ear isimpaired, cochlear hair cells and auditory nerve structures may sufferirreversible damage. Without adequate oxygenation:

Cellular metabolism declines
Inflammation persists
Neural signaling becomes impaired
Permanent hearing loss may occur

Early intervention improves thelikelihood of recovery.

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy delivers 100% oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure, significantly increasing oxygen levels in the blood plasma. For Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss, HBOT may support recovery by:

Increasing oxygen delivery to theinner ear

Enhancing cochlear oxygen tension

Supporting cellular metabolism and repair

Reducing inflammation

Improving microvascular circulation

Supporting auditory nerve function

HBOT is most effective when initiated asearly as possible, often in combination with standard medical treatmentssuch as corticosteroids.

FDA & UHMS Status

Adjunctive / Recognized Use

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is recognized by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) as an adjunctive treatment for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss. HBOT is commonly used in combination with medical therapy, particularly when initiated within days to weeks of symptom onset. Eligibility and coverage depend on diagnosis timing, severity, and physician referral.

Insuracne Accepted

Insurance Coverage & Referrals

Many patients receiving HBOT for delayed radiation injury may qualify for insurance coverage, including:

Medicare

PPO insurance plans

Blue Shield

Coverage is typically based on:

Documented history of radiation therapy

Evidence of delayed tissue injury

Medical necessity

Physician referral

Prior authorization requirements

Our team assists with insurance verification and coordination prior to initiating treatment.

What to Expect at OxygenWell

At OxygenWell, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is delivered in a clinically supervised, medical-grade environment. Patients receive:

Individualized treatment planning

Evidence-based hyperbaric protocols

Monitoring by trained hyperbaric professionals

Coordination with oncology and surgical providers

Care focused on safety, comfort, and outcomes

Treatment courses often involve multiple sessions over several weeks, depending on tissue response and physician recommendations.

Why Choose OxygenWell

Medical-grade hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Experience treating radiation-induced tissue injury

Focus on FDA-recognized conditions

Locations in Sherman Oaks & Calabasas

Calm, professional, and patient-centered environment

Insurance-friendly care model

Schedule a Hyperbaric Consultation

If you or a loved one is living with achronic non-healing wound and exploring Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, our team ishere to help.

Request a Hyperbaric Consultation Verify Insurance Eligibility

ⓘ Medical Disclaimer

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a medicaltreatment and may not be appropriate for all patients. Treatment eligibility,protocols, and insurance coverage depend on individual diagnosis and medicalevaluation. OxygenWell does not guarantee outcomes.