As we navigate through life’s ups and downs, it’s always fascinating to learn about our favorite celebrities’ personal struggles. Recently, veteran Bollywood singer Alka Yagnik made headlines when she revealed that she had been diagnosed with a “rare sensory hearing loss” due to a viral attack.
What exactly is this rare condition? According to Dr. Manish Munjal, Vice Chairman of ENT at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi, sudden sensory hearing loss is a medical emergency that can become irreversible if not treated aggressively within 48-72 hours. The culprit behind this disorder lies in the inner ear organ called Cochlea, where damage occurs due to hair cell damage.
But what causes this rare condition? Dr. Munjal explains that it could be triggered by simple viruses like Herpes, Varicella, and Mumps or sudden loud exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels (dB). In some cases, more serious underlying conditions such as painkiller overdose, chemotherapy-induced hearing loss, tumour compression on the auditory nerve pathways can also lead to this disorder.
The good news is that once diagnosed by an ENT specialist with a thorough ear examination and audiometry test, treatment options are available. A cocktail of antivirals, oral and intratympanic steroids along with rest from noisy environments may be prescribed to aid recovery. And the prognosis? According to Dr. Munjal, the chances of recovery are usually 70 per cent or higher.
It’s heartening to see Alka Yagnik taking steps towards managing her condition and sharing her experience with fans worldwide. As we wish our beloved singer a speedy recovery, let this serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for healing and growth.
In conclusion, it’s essential to prioritize ear health by being mindful of noise levels around us and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms arise. By doing so, we can all contribute to spreading awareness about rare conditions like Alka Yagnik’s sensory hearing loss and supporting those affected along the way.