Like any nerve, the auditory nerve is susceptible to neuropathy. Patients with auditory neuropathy usually have hearing loss on both sides early in life, sometimes beginning in childhood. The diagnosis is usually based on a combination of results from several hearing tests. Patients with auditory neuropathy usually consult with an audiologist, who may recommend a hearing aid. If hearing aids are inadequate, then the audiologist may refer you to an otolaryngologist to be evaluated for cochlear implantation.