Causes of hearing loss
As we grow older we begin to experience natural hearing loss (Presbycusis)
Changes to the inner ear and auditory nerve change how we hear over time. Presbycusis is the most common type of hearing loss we are presented with in our clinics. Most patients present with common issues difficulties tolerating loud noises, issues understanding conversations & being hard of hearing.
We can experience hearing loss at different stages of our life.
Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when we experience damage or trauma to the inner ear. Conductive hearing loss also refers to the sound waves not being able to reach the inner ear, quite often due to wax build up, fluid in the ear or perforated eardrum.
Hearing Loss Causes:
- Trauma to the ear or head
- Prolonged loud noises at
- Viral infections or constant ear infections
- Ototoxic medicines
- Age related hearing loss (sensorineural)
- Delayed onset of progressive genetic hearing loss
- Sudden high decibel noises
- Cerumen impaction (impacted ear wax)
Causes in children & adolescence:
- Chronic suppurative otitis media (chronic ear infections)
- Chronic non suppurative otitis media (collection of fluid in the ear)
- Meningitis and other infections
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