6 Min Read
Hearing is one of the most precious senses, allowing us to connect, communicate, and experience the world fully. Yet, for millions, this ability fades — gradually or suddenly — leading to a condition we commonly call hearing loss. It doesn’t just affect the ears; it influences our quality of life, relationships, mental health, and confidence.
Thanks to advancements in medical science, many forms of hearing loss are now treatable or manageable. At Manipal Hospital Patiala, ENT specialists provide cutting-edge solutions tailored to every individual’s hearing profile.
Let’s explore the different types of hearing loss, what causes it, how to recognise the early hearing loss symptoms, and the most effective hearing loss treatment options available today.
Synopsis
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss refers to a partial or complete inability to hear sounds in one or both ears. It can affect people of all ages, although it’s more common in older adults. The condition may be mild, moderate, severe, or profound, and it can significantly impact daily life if left untreated.
Hearing loss can occur suddenly due to trauma or infection, or develop slowly over time because of ageing or prolonged exposure to loud noise.
Types of Hearing Loss
Understanding the types of hearing loss is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. It is generally classified into three categories:
1. Conductive Hearing Loss
This occurs when sound cannot travel efficiently through the outer or middle ear to the inner ear. Common causes include:
-
Ear infections
-
Blocked ear canal (earwax)
-
Damaged eardrum
-
Fluid in the middle ear
This type is often temporary and may be reversed through medical or surgical treatment.
2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This is the most common form and is caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear or the auditory nerve. Common causes include:
-
Ageing
-
Exposure to loud noises
-
Certain medications
-
Viral infections
Unfortunately, this type of hearing loss is usually permanent, but it can often be managed effectively with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
3. Mixed Hearing Loss
This is a combination of conductive and sensorial loss. It means that there is damage in both the outer/middle ear and the inner ear. Treatment usually involves a combination of medication, surgical intervention, and hearing devices.
At Manipal Hospital Patiala, patients are thoroughly assessed to determine which of these types of hearing loss is present, so that a tailored treatment plan can be put in place.
Hearing Loss Symptoms
Identifying hearing loss symptoms early can make a huge difference in treatment success. Here are some common warning signs:
-
Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
-
Trouble following conversations in noisy environments
-
Turning the TV or radio volume up too high
-
Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds like birds or doorbells
-
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
-
Feeling like others are mumbling or speaking too softly
-
Withdrawal from social situations due to hearing difficulties
If you notice these hearing loss symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it’s best to book a hearing test without delay.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss causes can vary depending on age, lifestyle, environment, and medical history. Some of the most common factors include:
1. Ageing (Presbycusis)
Natural wear and tear of the inner ear over time can lead to gradual hearing loss, particularly affecting high-frequency sounds.
2. Noise Exposure
Long-term exposure to loud environments — such as industrial work, loud music, or fireworks — can damage inner ear cells.
3. Infections
Ear infections, especially if untreated, can cause both temporary and permanent hearing issues.
4. Earwax Buildup
Excessive wax can block the ear canal and muffle sound transmission.
5. Ototoxic Medications
Certain drugs (including some antibiotics, chemotherapy agents, and high-dose aspirin) can harm the inner ear.
6. Injuries or Head Trauma
Accidents or sudden blows to the head can damage ear structures or the auditory nerve.
7. Genetic Factors
Some types of hearing loss are inherited. A family history of early-onset or progressive hearing impairment increases the risk.
8. Medical Conditions
Diseases like diabetes, heart conditions, and Meniere’s disease can also contribute to hearing deterioration.
At Manipal Hospital Patiala, ENT specialists explore all potential hearing loss through advanced testing to reach an accurate diagnosis.
Modern Hearing Loss Treatment Options
Modern healthcare offers a range of hearing loss treatment options, from simple solutions to sophisticated devices. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition.
-
Medical Treatment - For conductive hearing loss caused by infections or wax buildup, antibiotics, antifungal medicines, or professional ear cleaning can restore normal hearing.
-
Surgery - Surgical intervention may be needed in cases like perforated eardrums, bone growth (otosclerosis), or tumours.
-
Hearing Aids - These small, wearable devices amplify sound and are particularly helpful for mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss. Modern models are discreet and feature Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and noise reduction.
-
Cochlear Implants - For severe or profound sensorineural hearing loss, cochlear implants can bypass damaged hair cells and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
-
Bone-Anchored Hearing Systems - These are suitable for patients with conductive or mixed hearing loss or single-sided deafness.
At Manipal Hospital Patiala, audiologists and ENT surgeons work together to ensure patients receive the best hearing loss treatment for their specific needs, with counselling and follow-up support to ensure long-term success.
Living with Hearing Loss: Support and Lifestyle Tips
Living with hearing loss can be challenging, but many people lead full, active lives with the right support. Here are some tips:
-
Use hearing devices consistently for better adaptation
-
Maintain regular check-ups with your ENT or audiologist
-
Avoid loud noises and use ear protection when needed
-
Join support groups for emotional and social encouragement
-
Inform family and friends, so they can help by facing you while speaking or using clear speech
When to Visit a Doctor
If you:
-
Notice a sudden drop in hearing
-
Experience ringing, pain, or discharge from the ears
-
Have difficulty hearing in both quiet and noisy settings
-
Struggle with balance or dizziness
It’s time to visit the experts at Manipal Hospital Patiala for a thorough hearing assessment and personalised care.
Final Thoughts
Hearing loss is more than just an ear problem — it affects how we live, interact, and experience the world. But thanks to medical advancements and expert care at Manipal Hospital Patiala, there's hope and help available for every type of hearing challenge.
Whether it’s through hearing aids, medical treatment, or surgical intervention, managing hearing loss is entirely possible. Don’t let hearing difficulties hold you back — early diagnosis and proper care can make all the difference.
FAQ's
Some types, like those caused by wax buildup or infections, are reversible. Others, like sensorineural hearing loss, are permanent but manageable.
No, hearing loss causes range from noise exposure to genetic conditions and infections. It affects all age groups.
Common hearing loss symptoms include asking others to repeat themselves, turning up the volume, or struggling to follow conversations.
Not always. Treatment varies based on the type of hearing loss. Options include surgery, medication, and implants.
Visit Manipal Hospital Patiala for state-of-the-art diagnostics, ENT consultations, and advanced hearing loss management.
Share this article on:
