What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is a partial or total inability to hear sounds in one or both ears. It's a common condition that can affect people of all ages, though it becomes more prevalent with age.
Types of Hearing Loss
1. Conductive Hearing Loss
- Affects the outer or middle ear
- Often caused by blockages or mechanical problems
- Usually temporary and treatable
- Common causes include earwax buildup and ear infections
2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss
- Affects the inner ear or auditory nerve
- Usually permanent
- Common causes include aging and noise exposure
- Can be managed with hearing aids or implants
3. Mixed Hearing Loss
- Combination of conductive and sensorineural loss
- Requires comprehensive treatment approach
Common Causes
-
Age-related (presbycusis)
- Noise exposure
- Genetic factors
- Infections
- Medications (ototoxic drugs)
- Head trauma
- Medical conditions
Signs and Symptoms
- Difficulty understanding conversations
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Turning up volume on TV/radio
- Trouble hearing in noisy environments
- Feeling that others are mumbling
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Audiometry tests
- Tympanometry
- Speech recognition tests
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatments
- Earwax removal
- Medication changes
- Treatment of underlying conditions
Assistive Devices
- Hearing aids
- Cochlear implants
- Assistive listening devices
Prevention
- Avoid loud noise exposure
- Use hearing protection
- Regular hearing checkups
- Maintain good ear hygiene
When to See a Doctor
- Sudden hearing loss
- Persistent tinnitus
- Discharge from ear
- Balance problems
- Progressive hearing difficulty