Hearing Loss

What is Hearing loss?

The ear can be divided into outer, middle and inner ear. The cause of hearing loss can be broadly divided into conductive or sensorineural causes (Figure 1).

Conductive hearing loss is due to a problem with sound reaching the inner ear. Most of the time, conductive hearing loss is reversible. Hearing is usually restored when the cause is successfully treated. Some of the common causes of conductive hearing loss include:

1. Impacted ear wax
2. Ear infections
3. Fluid in the middle ear (Figure 2)
4. Foreign body in the ear canal
5. Hardening or stiffening of the hearing bones

Sensorineural hearing loss is due to a problem with the inner ear structures (cochlea – which is the hearing organ or vestibular nerve – which is the hearing nerve). Unfortunately, most of the time, sensorineural hearing loss is permanent or irreversible. If the hearing loss is significant, these patients usually require a hearing aid (conventional or implantable). Some of the common cause of sensorineural hearing loss include:

1. Ageing (Presbyacousis)
2. Regular and prolonged exposure to loud noises
3. Viral infection of the inner ear structures (labyrinthitis)
4. Certain medications (ototoxic drugs)
5. Trauma

For assessment of hearing loss, your ENT Specialist will take a full clinical history, conduct a physical examination and likely perform a hearing test (audiometry). The management of hearing loss depends on the cause of hearing loss.