Deafness, or hearing loss, is a partial or complete inability to hear. Its extent ranges from mild difficulties hearing soft sounds to the impossibility of detecting any sound at all. Deafness may be congenital (a person is born deaf) or acquired later on as a result of various reasons: aging (presbycusis), exposure to noise, infections (like otitis media, meningitis), certain drugs, injuries, genetic disorders, blockage of the ear canal with wax.
Conventional treatment for the loss of hearing depends upon the cause. It could include:
Ayurveda believes that hearing is associated with Vata dosha (air and space element), more specifically, Prana Vata, which is related to the head and senses, and Shrotra Vaha Srotas, the ear channels. Ayurvedic treatment includes:
Herbal Preparations: Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Bala are used because of their nerve-tonic and rejuvenating properties. Specific herbs are chosen based on the constitution of the individual and the etiology of the hearing loss.
Karna Purana (ear filling): The ear canal is filled with medicated oils or herbal decoctions. This is believed to nourish the structures of the ear and thereby improve hearing.
Nasya (nasal administration of herbal oils): The nasal therapies can clear blockages and improve circulation in the head and neck region.
Shirodhara: The gentle pouring of medicated oil on the forehead can have a soothing effect and may indirectly benefit the hearing by reducing stress.
Diet and lifestyle may play a supportive role for maintaining overall health and potential support for hearing:
Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients is prescribed. Warm, cooked foods, healthy fats, and spices like ginger and garlic might be helpful. Processed foods, excessive caffeine, and alcohol should be kept to a minimum.
Lifestyle: Avoiding loud noise exposure is the way to prevent further damage. Stress management techniques like yoga and meditation can also prove helpful.
Is hearing loss permanent?
Not all hearing loss is permanent. Some can be treated and are reversible, like that caused by earwax blockage or infections.
Can exposure to noise lead to permanent hearing loss?
Yes, prolonged exposure to really loud noise can damage your delicate hair cells in your inner ear, causing permanent loss of hearing.
Is tinnitus an indicator of hearing loss?
Although tinnitus is usually associated with hearing loss, it sometimes indicates some other causes.
Can Ayurveda cure deafness completely?
Ayurveda can offer supporting therapies to deal with some kinds of hearing loss and keep the ears healthy, but it is very important to see an expert for a particular kind of therapy for instance, the audiologist/ENT specialist, and likewise, a certified Ayurveda specialist.
Do hearing aids help?
Hearing aids help many people with hearing loss to dramatically improve auditory perception.
What is a cochlear implant?
A cochlear implant is an electronic device surgically implanted that may provide an individual with a sense of hearing who suffers from severe to profound hearing loss.
Can certain medicines cause loss of hearing?
Yes, some medicines known as ototoxic drugs damage hearing.
How can I protect my hearing?
Limit exposure to loud noise. Wear earplugs when in loud environments. Attend regular checkups for hearing.
Can stress impact hearing loss?
Stress can affect hearing and may not cause hearing loss, but it can add to tinnitus and some other ear-related symptoms. Techniques for managing stress are helpful.
