Top Bollywood singer Alka Yagnik posted a photo of herself on Monday and said that “a few weeks ago, as I walked out of a flight, I suddenly felt I was not able to hear anything”.
She explained that she suffered extensive hearing loss while on a visit to Goa and it was caused by a viral attack.
“Having mustered some courage in the weeks following the episode, I want to break my silence now for all my friends and well-wishers who have been asking me why I’m missing in action,” she said. “It has been diagnosed by my docs as a rare sensory neural nerve hearing loss, due to a viral attack.
“For my fans and young colleagues, I would add a word of caution regarding exposure to very loud music and headphones. One day, I wish to share the health perils of my professional life. With all your love and support I am hoping to recalibrate my life and come back to you soon.”
The Times of India reported that she had gone to Goa with friends in May when she began to lose hearing in her right ear. Within 24 hours she lost hearing entirely and felt her left ear too getting affected.
The singer initially thought it was because of cabin pressure and that her ear would pop soon, but it only became worse as time passed.
Her manager Niraj Mishra said all treatment options are being explored, both in India and overseas.
According to sources at Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, where Alka was admitted on her return from Goa, she was diagnosed with sensorineural nerve hearing loss.
“It was due to a viral attack,” said Alka, who has been the voice behind many famous Bollywood tracks including Udja Kale Kawan, Oodhni and Aaye Ho Meri Zindagi Mein. “This sudden, major setback has caught me completely unawares.”
Her friends and industry colleagues have showered love and support. Actress Ila Arun said: “So sorry to hear this dearest Alka. It’s heartbreaking, but with blessings and today’s best doctors you will be fine and soon we will be hearing your sweet voice.”
Singer Sonu Nigam said: “I knew something was not right. I’ll see you when I get back...God speed your recovery.”
Doctors told The Times of India that sensorineural nerve hearing loss is hard to reverse. However, there are several treatment options available to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life for those with this condition.
Treatment includes medication, cochlear implants, hearing aids and assistive listening devices.
