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Hearing loss

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Ear anatomy
Ear anatomy

Alternative Names    Return to top

Decreased hearing; Deafness; Loss of hearing

Definition    Return to top

Hearing loss is the total or partial inability to hear sound in one or both ears.

See also: Hearing loss of aging   

Considerations    Return to top

Minor decreases in hearing are normal after age 20. Hearing problems usually come on gradually, and rarely end in complete deafness.

There are many causes of hearing loss. They can be divided into two main categories:

CHL is often reversible -- SNHL is not. People who have both forms of hearing loss are said to have mixed hearing loss.

Screening for hearing loss is now recommended for all newborns. In children, hearing problems may cause speech to develop slowly.

Ear infections are the most common cause of temporary hearing loss in children. Fluid may linger in the ear following an ear infection. Although this fluid can go unnoticed, it can cause significant hearing problems in children. Any fluid that stays longer than 8 - 12 weeks is cause for concern.

Preventing hearing loss is more effective than treating it after "the damage is done."

Causes    Return to top

Genetic:

Congenital:

Infectious:

Traumatic:

Toxic:

Age-related:

Occupational:

Other:

Temporary hearing loss can be caused by:

Home Care    Return to top

Wax build-up can frequently be flushed out of the ear (gently) with ear syringes (available in drug stores) and warm water. Wax softeners (like Cerumenex) may be needed if the wax is hard and impacted.

Care should be taken when removing foreign bodies. Unless it is easy to get to, have your health care provider remove the object. Don't use sharp instruments to remove foreign bodies.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if:

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

The medical history will be obtained, and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting hearing loss in detail may include:

The physical examination will include a detailed examination of the ears.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

A hearing aid or cochlear implant may be provided to improve hearing.

References    Return to top

Rakel RE. Textbook of Family Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders; 2005:443-444.

Update Date: 10/24/2007

Updated by: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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