Kimberly Gill, AuD

Q: What causes hearing loss?

A: Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, and it can be classified into two main types: sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both.

Sensorineural (Nerve-type) Hearing Loss:

• Age-related factors (Presbycusis): The natural aging process can lead to a gradual decline in hearing ability. Over time, the hair cells in the inner ear, can degenerate or become damaged. These hair cells are responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that the brain can interpret. As they diminish in number or function, hearing sensitivity decreases.

• Noise-induced hearing loss: Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as those in industrial workplaces, concerts, or through personal audio devices, can damage the hair cells in the inner ear.

• Genetic factors: Some forms of hearing loss have a genetic component, and individuals may inherit a predisposition to hearing impairment.

• Illness or infection: Certain viral or bacterial infections, such as meningitis, can lead to sensorineural hearing loss.

• Ototoxic medications: Some medications, like certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can have side effects that damage the inner ear. Conductive Hearing Loss:

• Blockage of the ear canal: Earwax buildup, or foreign objects can obstruct the ear canal and cause conductive hearing loss.

• Middle ear infections: Infections in the middle ear can lead to the accumulation of fluids, affecting the transmission of sound waves to the inner ear.

• Damage to the middle ear bones: Trauma or other factors that affect the small bones in the middle ear (ossicles) can result in conductive hearing loss.

Mixed Hearing Loss:

As the name suggests, mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. This can occur when an individual has both problems with the inner ear or auditory nerve and issues with the middle or outer ear.

Other Causes:

Head trauma: Injury to the head or skull fractures can damage the auditory system. Certain diseases: Conditions like Meniere's disease, autoimmune inner ear disease, and some neurological disorders can contribute to hearing loss.

Prenatal factors: Some factors during pregnancy, such as exposure to certain infections, drugs, or toxins, can contribute to hearing loss in the baby. It's important to note that hearing loss can be gradual, and individuals may not always be aware of it until it becomes more pronounced. Regular hearing check-ups and the use of hearing protection in noisy environments can help prevent or minimize hearing loss in some cases. If someone suspects they have hearing loss, it's advisable to consult with an audiologist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Call our office to make an appointment for your hearing evaluation. Life Sounds Great!

The Hearing Center Advanced Audiology Concepts 8897 Mentor Avenue Mentor, 44060 440-205-8848