Sudden sensorineural hearing loss, or SSHL, is sometimes called “sudden deafness.” The definition is contained in the name, so let's break that down. The word “sudden” refers to hearing loss that goes from normal to greatly diminished in 72 hours or less. The word “sensorineural” indicates that the structures of the inner ear and the nerve pathways that connect to the brain have somehow become damaged.

HBOT is a treatment in which someone breathes pure oxygen while in a pressurized chamber or room. Some cases of SSHL arise due to impaired blood flow to the inner ear. With HBOT, additional oxygen is delivered to those tissues.

Several small studies over the years have found that this therapy can lead to improved hearing in some individuals.

breathing pure O2 treat to increase the supply of O2 to the ear and brain in an attempt to reduce the sererity of hearing loss and tinnitis.