Hearing loss

The ear is closely associated with the Kidney channel in TCM. Age-related hearing loss is often read as Kidney deficiency; sudden sensorineural hearing loss (a medical urgency requiring immediate ENT evaluation) may respond to acupuncture particularly well within the first 2 weeks of onset.

Sudden hearing loss patients should see an ENT immediately — acupuncture is a valuable adjunct, not a replacement for steroid treatment. For gradual hearing loss, sustained sessions and herbal support can meaningfully reduce further decline and improve related symptoms like tinnitus. Realistic expectation-setting is important.