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WHAT CAUSES HEARING LOSS? AND CAN IT BE TREATED?

Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent.

It can also develop gradually with age or come on suddenly.

Hearing loss in just one ear may be due to a build up of wax, an infection or a burst eardrum.

Sudden loss in both ears may be due to damage from a very loud noise or side effects of certain medication.

Gradual hearing loss may be the result of fluid building up, known as glue ear; a bony growth, called otosclerosis; or skin cell accumulation, known as cholesteatoma.

Gradual hearing loss in both ears is usually caused by ageing or exposure to loud noises over many years.

Hearing loss sometimes gets better on its own.

A build up of wax can also be treated by being suctioned out or softened with drops.

However, hearing loss can also be permanent, with treatment then focusing on making the most of the hearing that remains.

This may involve:

  • Hearing aids
  • Implants - attach to the skull or are placed deep in the ear, if hearing aids are ineffective
  • Communicating via sign language or lip reading

Hearing loss can be prevented by avoiding loud music and wearing headphones that block out background noise.

Ear defenders should also be worn if you work in a noisy environment, such as a building site.

And ear protection should be worn at concerts and other noisy events. 

Source: NHS Choices 

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