Common Causes of Hearing Loss and How to Address Them

What is hearing loss?

Hearing loss happens when the ears do not pick up sounds as clearly as they once did. It can affect one or both ears and may be temporary or permanent. There are several types, including conductive loss (problems in the outer or middle ear) and sensorineural loss (issues in the inner ear or auditory nerve).

Types of hearing loss

• Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound cannot reach the inner ear due to problems in the outer or middle ear.
• Sensorineural hearing loss involves the inner ear or nerve pathways responsible for hearing.
• Some people have mixed hearing loss, with both conductive and sensorineural components.

Common causes

Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis)

As people age, the tiny hair cells in the inner ear gradually wear down. This often starts with higher-frequency sounds and can make understanding speech in noisy settings harder. Genetics, long-term noise exposure, and certain health factors can influence its progression.

Noise-induced hearing loss

Loud environments—workplaces, concerts, headphones at high volume—can damage the hair cells of the inner ear. This damage can be temporary or permanent and is more likely with repeated exposure. Protecting your ears and moderating sound exposure can help prevent further loss.

Ear infections and blockages

Infections in the ear or a buildup of earwax can cause temporary hearing loss. Fluid in the middle ear (common after colds) can also dampen hearing. If changes in hearing persist, consult a clinician.

Ototoxic medications and health conditions

Some medicines and medical treatments can affect hearing. This includes certain antibiotics, cancer therapies, and high-dose pain relievers, as well as chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure that may contribute to hearing changes over time.

Genetic and other factors

Inherited traits can influence when and how hearing changes occur. Some people are born with hearing loss or develop it due to genetic factors.

How to address common causes

See a clinician for evaluation

If you notice changes in hearing, schedule an evaluation with a primary care clinician, an audiologist, or an ear-nose-throat specialist. They may perform a hearing test, examine the ears, and review medications and medical conditions that could be contributing.

Protect your ears

Minimize unnecessary exposure to loud noises. Use hearing protection in loud environments and practice safe listening habits (turning down volume, taking breaks from loud sound). Be mindful of long-term exposure, especially in work settings.

Manage infections and blockages

Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal, which can push wax deeper or injure the ear. Seek professional care for infections or persistent blockage, as treatment can resolve or reduce hearing loss related to these conditions.

Treatments and devices

For many kinds of hearing loss, options include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and, in some cases, surgical or medical interventions. An audiologist or ENT can help determine the best approach based on the cause and severity of the loss.

Regular hearing checks

Ask your clinician about regular hearing screenings, especially if you have risk factors (age, exposure to loud noise, or chronic health conditions). Early detection can improve outcomes.

When to seek urgent care

Seek urgent care for sudden, painless hearing loss, especially if it occurs after head injury or without a clear cause. Sudden loss can be a medical emergency and may be more treatable when addressed quickly.