Hearing Loss
Sources consulted
This article is original patient-education content.
- WHO—Health topics A–Z(2024)
- NHS—Health A to Z(2024)
- CDC—Health topics(2024)
Based on international clinical guidelines
Overview
Hearing loss is a reduced ability to hear sounds. It can be mild (missing some sounds) to profound (unable to hear at all). It may happen suddenly or develop slowly over time.
Key facts
- Hearing loss can affect people of all ages, from babies to older adults.
- Many causes of hearing loss are treatable, especially when caught early.
- Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation and depression, but support is available.
Yes, hearing loss is very common. About 1 in 6 people in the UK have some degree of hearing loss, and it becomes more common with age.
Hearing loss can happen at any age, but it is most common in older adults. About 40% of people over 50 have some hearing loss. It can also affect children, often due to ear infections or genetic conditions.
Symptoms
- Sudden hearing loss in one ear (over a few hours or days), especially with dizziness or ringing
- Severe ear pain with fever or discharge
- Hearing loss after a head injury
- Blood or clear fluid coming from the ear
- ⚠Moderate hearing loss with ear pain, fullness, or discharge
- ⚠Sudden hearing loss in one ear without dizziness
- ⚠Persistent tinnitus (ringing) that worries you
Common symptoms
- Difficulty hearing conversations, especially in noisy places
- Asking people to repeat themselves
- Turning up the volume on the TV or radio
- Feeling that people are mumbling
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)
Symptoms in children
- Delayed speech and language development
- Not responding when called
- Difficulty following instructions at school
- Using louder than normal speech
- Trouble with balance or coordination
Symptoms in older adults
- Withdrawing from social activities
- Confusion or trouble understanding what others say
- Missing phone calls or doorbells
- Feeling tired after listening (listening fatigue)
Causes
Main causes
- Aging (presbycusis) – natural wear and tear on the inner ear
- Loud noise exposure (e.g., concerts, machinery, headphones at high volume)
- Ear infections (especially in children)
- Earwax buildup blocking the ear canal
- Genetics – some families have inherited hearing loss
- Certain medications that can damage the ear (ototoxic drugs)
- Head injuries or trauma to the ear
Risk factors
- Getting older (over 50)
- Frequent exposure to loud sounds
- Family history of hearing loss
- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
- Some chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
- Having frequent ear infections
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Sudden hearing loss within hours or days
- Hearing loss after an ear injury or head trauma
- Ear pain with fever, discharge, or bleeding
Book a routine appointment if:
- Gradual hearing loss over weeks or months
- Trouble hearing conversations that affects daily life
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears
Diagnosis
A doctor or audiologist (hearing specialist) will ask about your symptoms, examine your ears with an otoscope (a lighted tool), and may test your hearing.
Tests that may be done
- Pure-tone audiometry – you listen to tones of different pitches and volumes
- Tympanometry – checks how well your eardrum moves
- Tuning fork tests – simple tests to see if hearing loss is conductive (outer/middle ear) or sensorineural (inner ear)
- Whispered voice test – a brief screening in the doctor's office
What to expect at your appointment
Hearing tests are painless. You will wear headphones in a quiet room and respond to sounds or words. The results help determine the type and degree of hearing loss. You may be referred to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further evaluation.
Treatment
Treatment for hearing loss depends on the cause. Some types can be reversed (like earwax removal or treatment of infection). For permanent hearing loss, devices can help you hear better.
Self-care at home
- Avoid using cotton swabs to clean ears – they can push wax deeper
- Use earplugs in noisy environments
- Remove earwax safely with over-the-counter drops (or have it removed by a professional)
- Lower the volume on personal devices
Medical treatments
Treatment options include hearing aids (small devices worn in or behind the ear), cochlear implants (for severe loss), and other assistive listening devices. For infections, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications. Your audiologist will help choose the best option for you.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery may be needed for some conditions, such as chronic ear infections that don't heal, otosclerosis (stiffening of tiny bones in the ear), or to place a cochlear implant. Your doctor will discuss if surgery is right for you.
Living with this condition
Living with hearing loss can be challenging, but small changes make a big difference. Let people know you have hearing loss and ask them to face you when speaking. Reduce background noise when you can (turn off TV or radio). Consider using hearing aids or other devices recommended by your audiologist.
Lifestyle tips
- Keep hearing aids clean and dry
- Have regular hearing check-ups
- Use captioning on TV or phone calls
- Attend a lip-reading class to improve communication
- Try to stay social – isolation can worsen mood
Diet and exercise
A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s may support ear health. Regular exercise improves blood flow, which can help maintain overall health, but there is no specific diet to cure hearing loss.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Hearing loss can lead to frustration, loneliness, or depression. Many people feel embarrassed or avoid social situations. It is important to talk about your feelings. Cognitive decline is also linked to untreated hearing loss, so seeking help early is best.
Prevention
Some types of hearing loss cannot be prevented (like age-related loss), but you can protect your hearing by avoiding loud noises and using ear protection. Limit headphone volume to 60% and take breaks.
Vaccines
Vaccines can help prevent infections that cause hearing loss, such as meningitis, mumps, and rubella. These are routine childhood vaccines. Always follow your local vaccination schedule.
Screening programmes
Newborn hearing screening is offered in many countries to detect hearing loss early. Adults, especially those over 50 or with risk factors, should have regular hearing checks. If you notice any changes, see a doctor.
Complications
If left untreated
- Social isolation and loneliness
- Depression and anxiety
- Higher risk of falls (due to balance issues)
- Cognitive decline and dementia in older adults
- Trouble at work or school
Long-term outlook
Most people with hearing loss can manage it successfully with treatment and support. Early help improves quality of life. Even if hearing loss is permanent, technologies and strategies can help you stay connected and active.
Find support
International organisations
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Hearing ↗
- Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) ↗
- International Hearing Society (IHS) ↗
Local organisations
- RNID (UK) ↗ · UK
- Hearing Australia ↗ · Australia
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.