Not all hearing loss is created equal. Sometimes it shows up suddenly, like after a loud concert or a bad ear infection. Other times, it creeps in over the years, slowly making conversations harder to follow and quiet moments feel too quiet.
Let’s take a look at some causes of permanent and temporary hearing loss and how you can protect your hearing.
Temporary vs. Permanent Hearing Loss Causes
Temporary hearing loss might be caused by:
- Ear infections. Infections in the middle ear can cause swelling and fluid buildup, muffling sounds until the infection clears.
- Blockages like earwax. Wax buildup can block the path of sound until a hearing professional removes it.
- Short-term loud noise exposure. Exposure to fireworks, power tools or concerts at the Hollywood Bowl can cause your ears to ring or your hearing to muffle for a few hours or days.
In temporary cases, hearing bounces back once you seek treatment for the root cause.
Permanent hearing loss comes from:
- Age-related changes. Known as presbycusis, this type of hearing loss progresses slowly as part of the natural aging process.
- Extended exposure to loud environments. Repeated noise exposure, like from construction jobs, factory work or loud music, can damage the hair cells in the inner ear over time.
- Some illnesses or genetic conditions. Conditions like Ménière’s disease or hereditary factors can lead to irreversible hearing damage.
- Ototoxic medications. Some drugs, including certain chemotherapy agents or blood pressure medication, can harm the sensitive structures of the inner ear and result in permanent hearing loss.
Because some hearing loss is permanent, practicing good hearing protection measures is crucial. In some cases, you may need hearing aids to manage permanent hearing loss.
How Can I Protect My Hearing?
There are a few practical ways to protect your hearing, including:
- Use earplugs at concerts, construction sites or while mowing the lawn
- Turn the volume down on headphones or earbuds
- Take listening breaks when in loud settings for a long time
- Schedule regular hearing tests
Ototoxic medications are one area where it’s difficult to protect your hearing. Because many ototoxic medications are lifesaving, the benefits usually outweigh the negatives. However, you should discuss how these drugs will affect your hearing so that you’re aware of the possible side effects.
Start Caring for Your Hearing Today
Don’t wait until your hearing loss starts to affect you. Contact The House Institute today to schedule a hearing test with one of our specialists.
