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Hearing Loss: Types, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Preventive Measures

Hearing loss is a critical issue caused by damage to the ear and its functionality. It depends upon the exposure to unnecessary noise and age factor. In this condition, a person decreases their ability to listen to the voice. It could be loud noise or have certain medical conditions. Let's figure out the reasons and solutions we can use to resolve the hearing loss problem.

Hearing Loss Key Points
CausesMeniere's disease, Ototoxicity, Ear infections
RemediesStay in quiet place, Listen smooth music, Lip-reading skills
Preventive OptionsLimit loud noises, Avoid medications, Protect ears
Treatment OptionsSurgical Procedure, Removing Wax, Hearing Aids
SpecialistENT Specialist

The hearing loss, as mentioned above, a person losses their ability to listen to a voice or sounds. There are many causes which are listed below are given in this blog. Additionally, diagnostic tests and treatments are also explained in detail. Basically, there are two main types of hearing loss: conductive and sensorineural. This blog will deal with the more crucial part of hearing loss, like what medications and surgeries are involved in treating hearing problems. Let's dive into the topic deeply.

Other Symptoms comes along with Hearing Loss

Many symptoms come along with hearing loss. If you do not have any indication or idea that you are at risk of hearing loss. You can read out some symptoms that provide you a rough idea that you may affect by hearing loss in the future. All signs and symptoms are given in the following.

Difficulty in hearing in noisy environments

People affected with hearing loss may have trouble hearing conversations in a crowded room or when there is background noise. The inner ear could damage this. That means loud noise cause wear and tears on the hairs of nerve cells that help to send the signals.

Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds

People with hearing loss may have difficulty hearing sounds such as children's voices, birds singing, or high-pitched alarms. The high-pitched tones may muffle you. It is become hard to listen to high-pitched noise. And may severely injure the eardrums.

Difficulty understanding speech

People with hearing loss may have trouble understanding speech, especially when the speaker is not facing them or there is background noise. This has occurred many times. People may need to develop an understanding of the speech.

Asking people to repeat themselves

People with hearing loss may frequently ask people to repeat themselves. You may have encountered a lot of times that someone asks you to repeat the question or statement.

Turning up the high volume on the TV or radio

People with hearing loss may turn up the volume on the TV or phone to hear it better.

Withdrawing from social situations

People with hearing loss may avoid social situations because it is difficult to hear and participate in conversations.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or whistling in the ears, a common symptom of hearing loss.

Dizziness or balance problems

People with hearing loss may experience dizziness or balance problems because the inner ear plays a role in maintaining balance.

Fatigue

People with hearing loss may experience fatigue because they have to work harder to hear and understand speech.

Depression and isolation

People with hearing loss may become depressed or isolated because they have difficulty communicating with others.

Types of Hearing Loss

There are various types of hearing loss that we need to understand. It is majorly classified according to the cause and location of the problem. Let's find out what are the types of hearing loss.

Conductive hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss causes fluid in the middle ear, ear infection, or poor eustachian tube function. Fluid in the middle ear can drain through the tube. This means it is caused by something that stops it from getting through the outer or middle ear.

Sensorineural hearing loss

In this type, it is caused by these special cells that nerve fibers in the inner ear cause damage to the nerve that carries signals to the brain. It could be hereditary or genetic factors that cause sensorineural hearing loss.

Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder

In this, sound cannot enter the ear, which reaches the acoustic nerve. There will be a problem in transmitting the disease condition that causes abnormality in hearing the sounds.

Mixed Hearing Loss

The hearing loss could be determined by sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. This could be classified as mixed hearing loss. It affects both the inner, out, and middle ears.

Medical conditions

Many medical conditions cause hearing loss. The following list of medical conditions and a brief description are given. It could affect the ear and hearing problems. If you have any issues consult with a doctor as well. Let's check out what are the disease conditions.

Otosclerosis

There is a middle ear in which the tiny bones become harder. This results in conductive hearing loss. Therefore, we must take care of our ears and immediately consult a healthcare provider for treatment.

Meniere's Disease

In this disease, inner ear hearing disorder gets disrupted, resulting in hearing and balance loss. It can also cause vertigo, tinnitus, and sensorineural hearing loss. Meniere's disease also depends upon the age factor as well as.

Measles

It is a virus that induces infections, mainly in children. It can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss, measles. Therefore, it is essential to save your children from measles viruses.

Noise-induced hearing loss

We often hear noise or music at an event. If the music volume is so high, it affects the hair cells. Ultimately, it damages the inner ear and causes hearing loss. Even that high voice in earphones can damage the ear.

Mumps

Mumps is another type of infection that is common in children. In this condition, the salivary gland gets inflamed. The swollen cheeks start damaging the cochlea. It is a spiral cavity that contains tiny hair. These cells get damaged, which turns into nerve impulses. This decreases the clarity and volume.

Acoustic Neuroma

A non-cancerous tumor directly grows on the nerve cells. This eventually impaired hearing and balance. The tumor can grow to a bigger size, which could be life-threatening.

Genetic disorders

There are many genetic disorders in the following. Genetic disorders are many that impact severely hearing ability. There are a few lists of them.

Conditions that cause Hearing Loss

 Conditions that cause Hearing Loss

A runny nose, also known as rhinorrhea, can have a variety of causes. Some of the most common causes include the following.

Colds and flu

These viral infections can cause inflammation in the nasal passages, producing excess mucus and a runny nose.

Allergies

Allergic rhinitis caused by hay fever leads to a runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion in response to allergens such as pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander.

Sinus infections

Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses, can cause a runny nose, facial pain, and pressure.

Environmental irritants

Exposure to irritants such as smoke, pollution, or strong odors can cause a runny nose.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation can cause a runny nose.

Non-allergic rhinitis

This is a condition where the cause of a runny nose is not due to an allergy but other factors such as changes in weather, temperature or humidity, spicy foods, alcohol, and certain medications.

Certain medical conditions

Some medical conditions, such as vasomotor rhinitis, an abnormal sensitivity of blood vessels in the nose, or certain types of tumors, can cause a runny nose.

Diagnostic tests recommended for Hearing Loss

Diagnosis of a runny nose typically begins with a physical examination and then the patient's symptoms and medical history. Depending on the suspected cause of the runny nose, the healthcare professional may also order certain tests given down below.

Allergy testing

This may include a skin prick test or a blood test to determine if the patient is allergic to certain allergens.

Nasal swab

A sample of nasal discharge may be collected and analyzed in a laboratory to identify the presence of a viral or bacterial infection.

CT scan

A CT scan may be ordered to examine the sinuses in more detail, particularly if a sinus infection is suspected.

Blood test

A blood test may be ordered to check for underlying medical conditions causing the runny nose.

Medical treatment options for Hearing Loss

There are many treatment options for hearing loss. You must seek a health care provider before using any method or technique. Let's discuss the options that your doctor can advise you to take.

Assistive listening devices

These devices can amplify sound and make it easier for the people to hear for people with hearing loss to hear in specific situations, such as watching television or using the telephone.

Medications

Though, no medication can cure or reverse most forms of hearing loss. However, some medications may be used to treat the underlying cause of the hearing loss, such as antibiotics for an ear infection or diuretics for Meniere's disease.

Hearing aids

Hearing aids are often commonly used treatment for hearing loss. They amplify sounds and make it easier for the person to hear. There are different types of hearing aids, such as behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and in-the-canal devices, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Cochlear Implant

A cochlear implant is an electronic device that can sense sound to a person. There are profoundly deaf or hard of hearing. It works on the electrical impulses to the auditory nerve. Following that, it sends the signals to the brain. As a result, they are interpreted as sound.

Assistive listening devices

Assistive listening devices (ALD) can help people hear in specific situations, such as watching TV, using the telephone, or in a noisy environment. ALDs include TV listening systems, telephone amplifiers, and personal FM systems.

Surgery

Surgery may be recommended to repair a conductive hearing loss, such as an eardrum hole, or remove a tumor or blockage in the ear.

Stapedectomy

This procedure treats conductive hearing loss caused by a problem with the middle ear bones. It involves removing the stapes bone and replacing it with a small prosthetic device.

Tympanoplasty

This procedure is used to repair a perforated eardrum. The surgeon will patch the hole in the eardrum using a small piece of tissue taken from the patient's body or a cadaver.

Mastoidectomy

This procedure removes infected or damaged bone from the mastoid bone, which is located behind the ear. It is typically used to treat chronic ear infections or to remove tumors.

Ossiculoplasty

This procedure is used to repair or reconstruct the middle ear's small bones that help transmit sound to the inner ear. Several home remedies may help to improve hearing or reduce symptoms of hearing loss.

Home Remedies

There are many home remedies help relieve the problem of hearing loss. This is important to consult a doctor before opting for any remedies.

Protect your ears from loud noise

Avoid exposure to loud noise, such as loud music, power tools, and firearms. This disrupts and damages the hair cells of the ear, which are responsible for the transmission of sound to the brain.

Exercise regularly

Exercise can help to improve blood flow to the ears, which can help to keep the ears healthy.

Get enough sleep

A sufficient amount of sleep is important to improve overall health. It also relaxes the mind and improves the sensory perception of the ears. It is required to keep ourselves in a silent place.

Eat a healthy diet

Eating a diet that should be rich in fruits and vegetables can help to keep the ears healthy.

Take Vitamin Supplements

Vitamin C, E, and magnesium are particularly beneficial for ear health.

Use earplugs

When you know you will be exposed to loud noise, such as at a concert or while mowing the lawn, use earplugs to protect your ears.

Keep your ears clean

Keep your ears clean by avoiding sticking objects in your ears, and use ear drops if you have earwax buildup.

Keep your ears dry

Avoid water activities that can cause water to enter the ears, and dry your ears well after swimming or showering.

Take a break from technology

Taking regular breaks from technology, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, can help to reduce the risk of hearing loss.

Speech therapy

People with hearing loss may benefit from speech therapy to help improve their ability to understand and communicate with others.

Lip-reading classes

It can help people with hearing loss to understand speech by reading the movements of the lips.

Preventive Measures for Hearing Loss

Several preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of developing hearing loss are given in the following.

Avoiding loud noise

Avoid exposure to loud noise, such as from loud music, heavy machinery, or firearms.

Protecting your ears

When working in loud environments, wear earplugs or other protective gear to help reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.

Monitoring your medications

If you're taking medications that can be toxic to the ear, such as certain antibiotics, talk to your doctor about ways to minimize the risk of hearing loss.

Having regular hearing tests

Schedule regular hearing tests, especially if you're at a higher risk of hearing loss.

We are maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Staying fit, eating good food, and staying active can help lower the risk of certain ear diseases that can cause hearing loss.

When to consult with the doctor

If you suspect that you have hearing loss, it is important to see an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor for a comprehensive evaluation. You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty hearing in noisy environments

  • Difficulty understanding speech

  • Asking people to repeat themselves frequently

  • Avoiding social situations

  • Difficulty hearing the doorbell or the phone ring

  • Difficulty hearing alarms or smoke detectors

  • Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)

  • Sudden hearing loss

Hearing Loss Doctors

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If you have hearing loss and are concerned about your health, it is important to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified hearing loss doctor. A doctor specializing in treating hearing loss, such as a ENT Specialist, would be the right health professional to consult.

Here is a list of Top verified doctors for hearing loss. You can book an appointment with one to start your hearing loss treatment today.

Dr. Barin Roy Chowdhury, ENT Specialist in

Dr. Barin Roy Chowdhury

Senior Consultant and HOD - ENT

60 Years of experience

20 Feedbacks

Manipal Hospitals, Dhakuria, Kolkata

Rs. 1,000 Consult Fees

Dr. P S Saharia, ENT Specialist in

Dr. P S Saharia

Senior Consultant - ENT

56 Years of experience

Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi NCR

Rs. 800 Consult Fees

Dr. Sandra Desa Souza, ENT Specialist in

Dr. Sandra Desa Souza

Director - ENT

55 Years of experience

11 Feedbacks

Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai

Rs. 1,500 Consult Fees

Hearing Loss Hospitals

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A hospital can provide various services to help diagnose and treat your hearing loss. If you are experiencing hearing loss In that case, it is important to visit a hearing loss hospital for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Check a list of Top Hospitals for hearing loss treatment.

Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai

Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai

Multi Speciality Hospital

4.9
4.9 out of 5 stars(1681 Reviews)

Established in 1918

🛌345 Beds

https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/45663/original/Anil_Karapurkar.webp?1682695579https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/45874/original/Bhupendra_Gandhi.webp?1682695590https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62022/original/Madhav_Kamat.webp?1682696472https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62633/original/Gustad_B_Daver.webp?1682696506https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/63645/original/Vijay_N_Khambhati.webp?1682696564 5+ Doctors
Dr Mehta Hospital, Chetpet, Chennai

Dr Mehta Hospital, Chetpet, Chennai

Multi Speciality Hospital

4.8
4.8 out of 5 stars(12 Reviews)

Established in 1940

🛌220 Beds

https://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webp 5+ Doctors
Nanavati Hospital, Vile Parle, Mumbai

Nanavati Hospital, Vile Parle, Mumbai

Super Speciality Hospital

4.7
4.7 out of 5 stars(1134 Reviews)

Established in 1950

🛌350 Beds

https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/56142/original/Ashok_Mehta.webp?1682696151https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/64539/original/Nana_C_Joshi.webp?1682696613https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62971/original/Agyasingh_Kochar.webp?1682696527https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/54588/original/Rashid_H_Merchant.webp?1682696064https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/52673/original/Harish_Mohanty.webp?1682695956 5+ Doctors

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions and answers about hearing loss.

What causes hearing loss?

Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, and certain medical conditions.

What are the 3 types of hearing loss?

The 3 types of hearing loss are conductive hearing loss, sensorineural hearing loss, and mixed hearing loss.

How is hearing loss treated?

Treatment for hearing loss depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, hearing loss can be treated with medication or surgery. The most common treatment for hearing loss is the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants.

What is the main cause of hearing loss?

The main cause of hearing loss is exposure to loud noise over a prolonged period of time. Other causes can include aging, genetics, certain medications, infections, and injuries to the ear.

Can hearing loss be prevented?

In some cases, hearing loss can be prevented by avoiding exposure to loud noise, protecting your ears during loud activities, and getting regular hearing screenings. If you have a medical condition that puts you at risk for hearing loss, such as otosclerosis, taking steps to manage the condition can help prevent hearing loss.

What are the first signs of losing your hearing?

The first signs of losing your hearing can include difficulty understanding speech, needing to turn up the volume on the television or radio, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, and having trouble hearing in noisy environments. Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can also be an early sign of hearing loss.

Hearing Loss Patient Reviews

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Reviews by patients on different.

Hearing LossReview 1

K .Parsad

Manipal Hospital

Dr. Anuj Goel has been a wonderful experience for me. He is a cheerful, lively, and upbeat individual. He provides us with actual, actionable, and concrete solutions to our situation. I am quite comfortable discussing any topic connected to life with you. Both mam and sir are the most nicest people I've ever encountered. I am completely satisfied.

Hearing LossReview 2

Shikha Jain

CARE Hospital

Dr. has been a wonderful experience for me. He is a cheerful, lively, and upbeat individual. He provides us with actual, actionable, and concrete solutions to our situation. I am quite comfortable discussing any topic connected to life with you. Both mam and sir are the most nicest people I've ever encountered. I am completely satisfied.

Hearing LossReview 3

P.Harshith Rao

Manipal Hospital

My time with Dr. has been excellent. He is a cheerful, lively, and upbeat individual. He provides us with actual, actionable, and concrete solutions to our situation. I am quite comfortable discussing any topic connected to life with you. Both mam and sir are the most nicest people I've ever encountered. I am completely satisfied.

About Credihealth

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