What Is SSCD (Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence)?
Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscene, commonly referred to as SSCD, is a rare condition that affects the inner ear. For singer Sonna Rele, it became a life-changing diagnosis.
Sonna Rele: A Rising Star Affected by SSCD
Sonna Rele was born in Kingsbury to a renowned musical family. Her father, Sailesh, and her mother, Uma, are both successful musicians. From an early age, Sonna immersed herself in music-singing, dancing, and performing with passion.
Her career took off when Disney selected her song ‘Strong’ for the 2015 Cinderella soundtrack. She continued to release hit singles and gained a strong online following, with over 500,000 followers on Instagram and more than a million on TikTok.
A Rare Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Six months ago, Sonna developed SSCD, a condition that began to interfere with her everyday life. Affecting up to only 1% of the population, SSCD is caused by a hole in the bone covering the superior semicircular canal in the inner ear. This condition is often congenital—resulting from the way the ear develops in the womb.
Symptoms of SSCD
People with SSCD may experience a wide range of symptoms—or none at all. Common signs include:
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Ear fullness or pressure
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Unsteadiness or balance issues
- Nystagmus (rapid eye movement)
- Autophony (hearing internal sounds like breathing or heartbeat)
- Heightened sensitivity to sound
Sonna’s Experience with SSCD
After experiencing loud feedback in a studio, Sonna woke up to something alarming.
“One day I woke up… and I could hear my eyes move. I could hear my heartbeat.”
This extreme sensitivity forced her to pause her musical career. Despite the setback, she now champions hearing health awareness—especially for young people who are at higher risk.
Raising Awareness: A Message to Young Listeners
Sonna now advocates for safe listening habits. She regularly speaks about the importance of protecting your hearing, especially with headphone use and loud venues.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
- 1.1 billion people aged 12–35 are at risk of hearing loss from unsafe listening habits.
- 40% of young people face damage from loud clubs and bars.
- 50% risk harm due to excessive headphone volume.
Sonna’s advice is simple:
“Look, I can sort of warn people… you don’t want to be like me. Protect your ears.”
Concerned About SSCD or Hearing Loss?
If you or someone you know may be experiencing symptoms of SSCD or another form of hearing loss, get in touch with our expert team today. A check-up could be the first step toward better hearing and a better life.
