9 Unexpectedly Common Causes of Hearing Loss

Incidents of hearing loss are occurring at younger and younger ages as the years go by. Scientists expect the number of people experiencing a hearing problem to increase even more in the coming years.

There are 2 types of hearing loss. The first type is conductive hearing loss, which occurs when sound cannot reach the brain, usually due to congestion from a cold, ear infection, ear drum perforation. Once the cause of the sound blockage has subsided, hearing usually returns to normal. The second type is sensorineural hearing loss. It occurs due to old age or exposure to loud noise.

Below are some unexpectedly common causes of hearing loss and steps you could take to reverse, reduce or even prevent hearing loss.

1. Earwax build-up in the ear

The wax secreted by our ear protects the eardrum from harmful substances and organisms such as dust, microbes, small insects. It prevents irritation and ear infections. The wax flows naturally towards the outlet of the canal but often it is disturbed and a large amount of wax remains deep in the ear or too much wax is produced by the ear itself. This can lead to temporary hearing loss, pain, tinnitus (ringing).

What to do: Try not to obstruct the natural flow of wax. After bathing, use a towel to clean the wax that has been expelled from the ear. By swabbing wax from deeper, you are likely to push the wax even deeper. If you experience any of the above symptoms, see an otolaryngologist to safely remove the wax.

2. Otitis

Infection of the ears by bacteria or viruses is more common at younger ages. If the eustachian tube, which connects the ear to the throat, is blocked by swelling and/or inflammation, the accumulation of fluid becomes a fertile ground for the growth of pathogenic bacteria. The result: congestion, pain, fever or temporary loss of hearing.

What to do: Infections usually last a few days. A warm compress, painkillers and decongestants can make you feel better. If you have a fever or severe pain, talk to your doctor.

3. Perforation of the eardrum

Perforation of the eardrum can occur due to exposure to excessively loud noise, due to severe otitis media, due to sudden changes in air pressure and also from the insertion of a cotton swab or other sharp object into the ear. The symptoms are pain as well as temporary loss of hearing.

What to do: Usually the eardrum heals on its own in about two months. It is essential that your otolaryngologist oversees the progression. Keep the ear away from water and use warm compresses and painkillers to relieve the pain.

4. Hearing music from “lice” headphones

These headphones, which are connected to the mobile phone, do not block outside noises. As a result, we turn up the volume even more so that the music we hear covers them. Some headphones can exceed 100 dB, a volume that can cause damage in as little as 15 minutes.

What to do: Get headphones that allow you to adjust the volume to keep it at a safe level. Most mobile phone devices also have volume control. Much safer are external headphones that block out external noise so you can enjoy music at a lower volume.

5. Concerts- Clubs- Stadiums

Loud music in clubs or at concerts can cause gradual hearing loss. The same is true of excessive noise in stadiums or other places where large crowds of people gather. Frequent exposure to loud sounds for prolonged periods of time results in the very sensitive hair cells in the inner ear wearing out, causing hearing problems. Once the hair cells are destroyed, they cannot be replaced. Hearing loss is cumulative, it does not occur immediately but over time.

What to do: Wear earplugs! There are commercially available specialized earplugs for every use that reduce sounds to a safe level. Another thing you can do when you are in a noisy environment is to take breaks every few minutes by going to a quiet place to rest your ears.

6. Obesity

Excess body weight is also a risk factor for hearing loss. Particularly dangerous is fat that accumulates around the waist.

What to do: Put exercise into your daily routine. Even a 15-minute walk a day reduces the risk of hearing loss by 15%. This is because physical activity improves blood flow in the body, and therefore in the inner ear.

7. Diabetes

Compared to people with normal blood sugar levels, people with diabetes are twice as likely to experience hearing loss.

What to do: If you have diabetes, see an otolaryngologist or hearing care professional for a hearing test. Make sure you exercise regularly, avoid processed foods, choosing fish, vegetables, fruits and whole grains instead.

8. Sleep apnea

A study showed that people with sleep apnea – a breathing disorder – had an increased risk of hearing loss. While the link between this disorder and heart disease is already known, this is the first time a link with hearing loss has also been made.

What to do: If you suspect you have this disorder, see your doctor, who may refer you to a sleep specialist. Various lifestyle changes and the use of certain devices help open blocked airways. Also, have your hearing checked by a professional.

9. Not using hearing aids

Using hearing aids unfortunately does not prevent hearing loss. However, wearing hearing aids when hearing loss already exists can help to maintain hearing at the level it has already reached. Also, when hearing aids are not used or when they are worn very rarely, the brain starts to lose the ability to process sounds. Not using them is also a safety issue, as hearing loss has been linked to falls, social isolation, depression and even dementia.

What to do: Have your hearing checked regularly by a specialist. If a loss is diagnosed, ask your hearing care professional which hearing aids are best suited for you. If your hearing care professional advises you on the best hearing aids for you, make sure you know which hearing aid is right for you. The earlier you wear them and the more hours you wear them, the more you protect your hearing, keep your brain alert, enjoy life!