Written by: Tess Yudin, Hons. B.A., CDA, Senior Audiology Assistant
Common Causes of Hearing Loss in Adults
Causes of hearing loss in adults can vary, and hearing loss can happen for many different reasons. Age-related hearing changes are common, but hearing loss can also be related to noise exposure, ear infections, certain medical conditions, medications, genetics, or other factors. Hearing loss can develop gradually over time or, in some cases, happen more suddenly.
Understanding the possible causes of hearing loss can help you recognize changes in your hearing and know when it may be time to have your hearing assessed.
Age-Related Hearing Changes
One of the most common causes of hearing loss in adults is the natural aging process. Over time, the delicate structures of the inner ear can become less effective at detecting sound.
Age-related hearing loss often develops gradually, which means you may not immediately notice a difference. You might first find that high-pitched sounds are harder to hear or that conversations become more difficult to follow when there is background noise.
For some people, the first sign is simply needing to ask others to repeat themselves more often.
Noise Exposure
Regular exposure to loud sounds can also contribute to hearing loss. This may include noise from the workplace, concerts, sporting events, power tools, recreational activities, or personal listening devices.
Hearing loss related to noise exposure can occur at any age. Repeated exposure to loud sounds can damage the sensitive structures of the inner ear, and the effects may build up over time.
Protecting your hearing around loud sounds is an important part of maintaining your hearing health.
Ear Infections, Earwax and Other Ear Problems
Not all hearing difficulties are caused by changes in the inner ear. Problems affecting the outer or middle ear can also make sounds seem quieter or less clear.
For example, excess earwax, ear infections, or fluid behind the eardrum can interfere with the way sound travels through the ear. Some of these causes may be temporary or treatable.
This is one reason a proper hearing assessment can be helpful. Hearing difficulty does not always mean permanent hearing loss.
Medications and Medical Conditions
Certain medications and medical conditions can affect hearing. Some medications are known to have the potential to affect the auditory system, while certain illnesses or health conditions may also be associated with changes in hearing.
If you notice a change in your hearing after starting a medication or experiencing a significant illness, speak with your healthcare provider and an audiologist. Do not stop taking a prescribed medication without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
Genetics and Family History
Genetics can also play a role in hearing loss. Some types of hearing loss can run in families, meaning that having a family history of hearing loss may be relevant when considering your own hearing health.
If several members of your family have experienced hearing loss, it can be helpful to mention this when discussing your hearing with an audiologist.
Sudden vs. Gradual Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can develop gradually or occur suddenly.
Gradual hearing changes are common and may be difficult to notice at first. You may find yourself turning up the television, having more difficulty in restaurants, or relying on lip reading without realizing that your hearing has changed.
Sudden hearing changes are different. A sudden or noticeable change in hearing should be assessed promptly rather than assuming it is simply part of getting older.
If you experience a sudden loss of hearing, particularly in one ear, seek medical attention promptly.
Understanding the Causes of Hearing Loss in Adults
There is not always one clear explanation for hearing loss. In some cases, several factors may contribute to changes in hearing.
For example, someone may experience age-related changes after many years of noise exposure. Genetics may also influence how a person’s hearing changes over time.
This is why understanding the cause of hearing loss is not always as simple as identifying one factor. A hearing assessment can provide more information about what is happening with your hearing.
How Can a Hearing Assessment Help?
If you have noticed changes in your hearing, a hearing assessment can help provide a clearer picture of your hearing health.
An assessment can help determine:
- Whether hearing loss is present
- The degree and type of hearing loss
- Whether the hearing loss affects one or both ears
- Which frequencies are affected
- Whether the pattern of hearing loss may suggest that further medical assessment is appropriate
A hearing assessment is also an opportunity to discuss what you have been experiencing, including when you first noticed a change and which listening situations have become more difficult.
When Should You Have Your Hearing Checked?
You may benefit from a hearing assessment in Toronto if you:
- Frequently ask people to repeat themselves
- Have difficulty following conversations in restaurants or noisy environments
- Turn up the volume on the television or other devices
- Find that people seem to mumble
- Have difficulty hearing higher-pitched voices or sounds
- Have a history of regular exposure to loud noise
- Have noticed a change in your hearing
- Have a family history of hearing loss
You do not need to wait until hearing loss significantly affects your daily life before having your hearing checked.
Understanding Your Hearing Is The First Step
The causes of hearing loss in adults can vary from person to person, and noticing a change in your hearing does not automatically mean that you need hearing aids. The first step is understanding what is happening.
If you have noticed changes in your hearing, a comprehensive hearing assessment can help you better understand your hearing health and determine what options may be appropriate for you.
Toronto Audiology Associates provides comprehensive hearing assessments and personalized hearing case in Toronto, North York, and the surrounding GTA.
Learn more about hearing health services here:
Toronto Audiology Associates
https://www.torontoaudiology.com/
Contact Toronto Audiology Associates to schedule your hearing assessment in Toronto and learn more about your hearing health.
