Sharp simultaneous decrease in vision and hearing

Question

Good afternoon!

For six months now, both hearing and vision have been deteriorating significantly at the same time. There was a slight hearing loss and high myopia before, but it began to progress recently. I get up every morning and feel that the objects have become hazy, blurred and the sounds are muffled. Optometrists and ENT specialists throw up their hands and only make diagnoses (high-grade myopia, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss). Someone says that it may be psychosomatic (I suffer from severe depression, took antidepressants). What could it be? Why do hearing and vision decrease at the same time?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

It's concerning that both your hearing and vision are deteriorating simultaneously. Could you explain about how it actually initiated? Are there any other symptoms? A few potential explanations come to mind after evaluating- 

Underlying Neurological Condition: Sometimes, conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) or a brain lesion could affect both sensory systems. These conditions can disrupt the pathways for both vision and hearing.
Circulatory Issues: Reduced blood flow to the eyes and ears (due to hypertension, vascular disorders, or even high blood pressure) might cause simultaneous sensory decline.
Autoimmune Disorders: Diseases like lupus or sarcoidosis can affect multiple organs and sensory systems, including eyes and ears.
Side Effects of Medication: Long-term use of certain antidepressants or other medications may cause sensory changes. Have you noticed any correlation between the start of a medication and these changes?
Psychosomatic Factors: Depression and severe stress can exacerbate sensory issues. Psychosomatic disorders might manifest physically and contribute to these symptoms, especially if you're under chronic stress.
Since your specialists haven’t identified a clear cause yet, a comprehensive evaluation by a neurologist might be helpful. Testing for autoimmune, vascular, or neurological conditions could offer more insights.

Ayurveda can help in managing these symptoms but we need to know the exact cause of these issues as it can become serious later.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been experiencing significant deterioration in both your hearing and vision over the past six months. It's understandable to feel concerned, especially when specialists provide limited explanations and diagnoses like high-grade myopia and bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. The simultaneous decline in both senses can be perplexing, and it's important to explore various factors that might contribute to this situation. In Ayurveda, the connection between mind and body is crucial. Emotional and psychological stress, such as severe depression, can impact physical health and may manifest in various ways, including sensory issues. Stress and mental health concerns can disrupt the balance of doshas (the body's energies), potentially leading to symptoms like blurred vision and muffled hearing. To support your well-being, it may be beneficial to focus on holistic practices that enhance both mental and physical health. Herbs such as brahmi (bacopa monnieri) and ashwagandha (withania somnifera) are known for their calming effects on the mind and may help alleviate symptoms of depression while promoting cognitive function. Additionally, incorporating practices such as yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and improve overall vitality. It's essential to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner who can assess your individual constitution and guide you in creating a personalized treatment plan. They may recommend dietary adjustments, herbal supplements, and lifestyle changes to address the root causes of your symptoms and promote a healthier mind-body connection.

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