Hearing loss can stem from various factors, impacting one or both ears. It's crucial to seek medical attention if you experience sudden or significant hearing changes.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss
Several factors contribute to hearing loss. These include:
- Age-related hearing loss (Presbycusis): Hearing gradually deteriorates with age due to wear and tear on the inner ear's hair cells and nerve cells responsible for transmitting sound signals. [Mayo Clinic, NIH]
- Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL): Exposure to loud noises damages the inner ear's sensitive structures. [NIDCD]
- Ear infections: Infections can damage the eardrum or other inner ear structures, leading to hearing loss. [NHS, Medical News Today]
- Earwax buildup: Excessive earwax can block the ear canal, obstructing sound waves from reaching the eardrum. [Medical News Today]
- Head trauma: Injuries to the head can damage the inner ear, causing sudden hearing loss. [Medical News Today]
- Tumors: Tumors, such as acoustic neuromas, can impact hearing. [Cedars-Sinai]
- Underlying health conditions: Conditions like coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, strokes, and diabetes can contribute to hearing loss. [Cleveland Clinic]
- Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL): This is a rapid hearing loss, often affecting only one ear, and can be linked to cochlear inflammation. [NIDCD, Harvard Health]
Symptoms Accompanying Hearing Loss
Hearing loss might be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) [NIH, Mayo Clinic]
- Dizziness [Medical News Today]
Seeking Medical Attention
Sudden hearing loss, especially in one ear, warrants immediate medical attention, as it could indicate a serious underlying condition requiring urgent treatment. See a doctor for proper diagnosis and management.
