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April 23, 2025
An essential sense, hearing helps us to communicate with others, and experience the world around us. However, millions of people worldwide experience some form of hearing loss, affecting their quality of life and daily interactions. Whether gradual or sudden, mild or severe, hearing impairment can arise from a variety of causes, including ageing, exposure to loud noises, infections, or genetic factors.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes, types, and available treatments for hearing loss, helping you gain a deeper understanding of this common yet often overlooked condition.
Hearing loss occurs when there is damage to any part of the auditory system, affecting the ability to detect, process, or interpret sounds. It can range from mild to profound and may affect one or both ears.
Hearing loss can happen suddenly or progressively and might be temporary or permanent, depending on its cause. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in managing and improving hearing health.
Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it easy to overlook the initial symptoms. Recognising these signs early can lead to timely intervention and better treatment outcomes. Here are some early signs to watch for:
Hearing loss is categorised into four main types, based on which part of the auditory system is affected:
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot efficiently travel through the outer or middle ear to reach the inner ear. This type is often temporary and may be treated medically or surgically.
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This type of hearing loss occurs due to damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve. SNHL is usually permanent and is the most common form of hearing loss.
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This kind of hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It occurs when both the outer/middle ear and inner ear/auditory nerve are affected.
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Central hearing loss occurs when the brain has difficulty processing auditory signals due to damage to the central auditory system.
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Several medical conditions can lead to hearing loss. Some of the most common diseases that impact hearing include:
A disorder affecting the inner ear, Meniere’s disease leads to episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear fullness. The hearing loss may fluctuate and eventually become permanent.
This genetic condition affects the middle ear bones, causing progressive hearing loss due to abnormal bone growth. Surgery or hearing aids are common treatments.
A rare condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the inner ear, causing sudden sensorineural hearing loss in one or both ears. Steroids and immunosuppressive drugs may help slow progression.
Exposure to loud sounds (above 85 dB) over time damages the hair cells in the cochlea, leading to permanent sensorineural hearing loss.
Hearing loss in one ear with ringing or buzzing may suggest serious conditions such as sudden sensorineural hearing loss, acoustic neuroma, Meniere’s disease, or ear infections. Immediate steroid treatment may be needed for sudden hearing loss, while other conditions may require further evaluation and treatment.
Treatment for Unilateral Hearing Loss:
Medical advancements are continuously improving hearing loss treatments. Some of the latest innovations include:
Regenerative medicine offers promising treatments for hearing loss by repairing damaged inner ear cells. Stem cell therapy and gene therapy are key approaches being studied to regenerate hair cells and potentially reverse sensorineural hearing loss.
AI enhances cochlear implants by reducing background noise, enhancing speech clarity, and adjusting sound for various settings. Machine learning is personalising and optimising these devices for each user.
New FDA-approved OTC hearing aids make hearing solutions more affordable and accessible for mild to moderate hearing loss.
Researchers are developing neuromodulation devices that use electrical stimulation to reduce tinnitus symptoms.
Clinical trials are testing drugs that might protect and restore hearing, especially in cases of age-related and noise-induced hearing loss.
Hearing loss is a complex issue affecting millions worldwide, caused by factors like age and noise exposure. Recognising types of hearing loss is key to finding effective treatments like hearing aids or implants. Early intervention is vital to prevent further damage and improve the quality of life for individuals with symptoms.
Spreading awareness can help create a more supportive environment for those living with hearing impairment.
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