Common Causes of Hearing Challenges

Hearing loss is a possibility that many may face at some point in life, and it can result from a range of factors, some preventable and others unavoidable. Lack of awareness about the causes and preventive measures for hearing loss can hinder proper care for your auditory health. Some of the common causes of hearing loss are aging, medical conditions and earwax blockages. Consulting with an audiologist allows you to gain insights into common causes of hearing loss and discover ways to further prevent it.

Aging

As individuals age, one common cause of hearing challenges is the natural aging process. Over time, the delicate structures within the ear, including hair cells and nerves, can undergo wear and tear, affecting their ability to transmit sound signals effectively. This age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, often begins gradually and may initially impact the ability to hear higher frequencies. While aging is a natural and unavoidable aspect of life, understanding its potential impact on hearing is essential. Exploring strategies to mitigate age-related hearing challenges can help individuals maintain a better quality of life as they navigate the aging process.

Regularly exposing oneself to loud noises, like music or machinery, can contribute to hearing damage, so minimizing such exposures is crucial. Additionally, maintaining overall health through a balanced diet and regular exercise can positively impact hearing. Regular check-ups with an audiologist for hearing assessments and early detection of potential issues play a vital role in preventing and addressing age-related hearing loss.

Medical Conditions

Hearing loss itself is a medical condition, but it can also be caused by other medical influences. For example, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and even autoimmune disorders can have a big impact on hearing health or lead to particular symptoms like tinnitus. Even certain medications can exacerbate hearing issues.

Ultimately, being proactive about visiting your audiologist and noting down your symptoms can help you identify a cause. Talk with your audiologist about the medications you are taking as some of these medications can cause hearing loss symptoms.

Earwax Blockages

Earwax is a natural substance your body produces to lubricate the eardrum, to capture bacteria and shield the inner ear from exposure to the outside world. That said, sometimes earwax can build up over time, and if you’ve been incorrectly using cotton swabs to clear out the inner ear, you might find that you’ve packed the wax into the ear canal. Either way, earwax blockages can cause problems, such as hearing loss or ear infections.

Avoid using cotton swabs to clear out a blocked ear, instead you can use steam inhalation or visit an audiologist to remove the earwax safely. In some cases, eardrops may also be given or recommended to help soften blocked earwax, allowing it to naturally fall out of the ear. Some individuals report their hearing as being fully restored after earwax treatment, not realizing its impact.

With this advice and the help of your audiologist, you can understand the cause of your hearing loss and treat these common issues.