Niagara ENT & Facial Surgeon
Dr. Babak Karamy, MD, FRCSC
Hearing Loss: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a partial or complete inability to hear sounds in one or both ears. Hearing loss can occur at any age and can be temporary or permanent, mild or profound. It can impact various aspects of life, including communication, social interactions, and overall well-being.
Symptoms & Types of Hearing Loss
The symptoms of hearing loss can vary depending on the type and degree of hearing impairment. Common signs of hearing loss may include:
​
-
Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
-
Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
-
Turning up the volume on electronic devices, such as the TV or phone
-
Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds or voices
-
Feeling like others are mumbling or not speaking clearly
-
Withdrawing from conversations or social situations
-
Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ears)
-
Ear pain or discomfort (in some cases)
​
There are three main types of hearing loss:
-
Sensorineural Hearing Loss: This type of hearing loss results from damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. It is the most common form of hearing loss and can be caused by age, exposure to loud noise, genetics, certain medications, and other factors.
-
Conductive Hearing Loss: Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the transmission of sound waves through the outer or middle ear. Common causes include earwax blockage, middle ear infections, fluid buildup, or structural issues in the ear.
-
Mixed Hearing Loss: Mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, where there is damage in both the inner/middle ear and the auditory nerve.
Causes and Risk Factors of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Common causes and risk factors include:
-
Aging: Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is a natural part of aging and often affects both ears.
-
Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud noises (e.g., concerts, heavy machinery, or firearms) can damage the hair cells in the inner ear and lead to hearing loss.
-
Genetics: Inherited genetic mutations can contribute to hearing loss, and certain genetic conditions are associated with hearing impairment.
-
Ear Infections and Diseases: Chronic ear infections, meningitis, and other illnesses that affect the ear can lead to hearing loss.
-
Medications: Some medications, particularly certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage.
-
Trauma or Injury: Head injuries or trauma to the ear can lead to hearing loss.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Hearing Loss
If you or a loved one suspect hearing loss, it is essential to seek professional evaluation from an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.
They will conduct a comprehensive hearing evaluation, which may include:
-
Audiometry: This test measures your ability to hear different sounds and frequencies.
-
Tympanometry: This test assesses the function of the middle ear and eardrum.
-
Speech Audiometry: This evaluates your ability to understand speech at various volumes.
​
Treatment options for hearing loss depend on the type, degree, and underlying cause of the condition.
Treatment may include:
-
Hearing Aids: Hearing aids are commonly used to amplify sounds and improve hearing for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss.
-
Assistive Listening Devices: These devices, such as amplified telephones and TV listening systems, can enhance sound clarity and communication.
-
Cochlear Implants: Cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices that can provide significant hearing improvement for individuals with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss.
-
Medication and Surgery: In some cases, conductive hearing loss caused by ear infections or structural issues may be treated with medications or surgical intervention.
Protecting Your Hearing
Preventing hearing loss is essential. Consider the following tips to protect your hearing health:
-
Limit Exposure to Loud Noise: Use ear protection in noisy environments and reduce the volume on personal electronic devices.
-
Maintain Ear Health: Avoid inserting objects into the ears, and seek prompt treatment for ear infections or injuries.
-
Regular Hearing Check-ups: Schedule regular hearing screenings, especially if you are at risk for hearing loss.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Identifying signs indicating a potential emergency related to hearing loss is essential. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
-
Sudden Hearing Loss: A rapid and unexplained loss of hearing in one or both ears requires urgent medical evaluation.
-
Accompanying Symptoms: Hearing loss accompanied by dizziness, severe headaches, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus) may indicate an urgent issue that needs immediate medical assessment.
-
Ear Injury or Trauma: If hearing loss occurs following head injury, sudden impact, or any trauma to the ear, seek prompt medical attention.
These signs could indicate a possible emergency situation related to hearing loss. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek urgent medical care or visit an emergency department for evaluation and appropriate intervention.
​
At Niagara ENT, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for hearing loss and related conditions. Our team will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to investigate and improve your hearing.
If you feel you have an issue with this consider a referral to Dr. Karamy.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this webpage is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment recommendations.