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Common Causes of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is more common than most people realize — and it doesn’t just affect the elderly. From children to adults, anyone can experience hearing difficulties due to a variety of reasons. Some causes are temporary and treatable, while others may require medical or surgical intervention. At Care Infinity, our ENT experts help patients in Patna understand, manage, and treat hearing loss with care and precision.


Understanding Hearing Loss

Hearing loss occurs when one or more parts of the ear stop working properly — this can happen suddenly or over time. The ear is made up of three parts:

  • Outer ear (captures sound)

  • Middle ear (transmits sound)

  • Inner ear (processes sound signals for the brain)

When any of these parts are affected, it leads to different types of hearing loss:

  • Conductive Hearing Loss: Caused by blockage or damage in the outer or middle ear

  • Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Caused by damage to the inner ear or hearing nerve

  • Mixed Hearing Loss: A combination of both


Common Causes of Hearing Loss

1. Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis)
This is the most common type in older adults. It happens gradually as the tiny hair cells in the inner ear wear out over time, affecting the ability to hear high-pitched sounds and conversations.

2. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Repeated exposure to loud sounds — from headphones, concerts, or machinery — can damage the inner ear. Even one sudden loud noise (like a blast) can cause permanent hearing damage.

3. Earwax Buildup
Too much wax can block the ear canal and muffle sound. Though not permanent, this is one of the most common and treatable causes of temporary hearing loss.

4. Chronic Ear Infections
Middle ear infections (otitis media) are especially common in children. If left untreated, they can cause fluid buildup, eardrum damage, and even permanent hearing loss.

5. Ototoxic Medications
Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, high-dose antibiotics, or loop diuretics, can damage the hearing nerve or inner ear structures — especially with long-term use.

6. Genetic or Congenital Conditions
Some babies are born with hearing loss due to inherited conditions, infections during pregnancy, or birth complications.

7. Trauma or Head Injury
A direct blow to the head or ear can disrupt the delicate structures inside the ear, leading to temporary or permanent hearing loss.

8. Other Medical Conditions
Illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune disorders can affect blood flow to the ears, damaging sensitive tissues.


Symptoms to Watch Out For

Hearing loss can develop so gradually that many people don’t realize it right away. Some signs include:

  • Frequently asking others to repeat themselves

  • Trouble hearing in noisy places

  • Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)

  • Turning up the TV or mobile volume too high

  • Withdrawing from conversations or social settings


When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the symptoms above, it’s important to consult an ENT specialist. Early diagnosis can often prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life significantly.


Hearing Loss Treatment at Care Infinity, Patna

At Care Infinity, our ENT and audiology team uses advanced tools and a patient-centered approach to:

  • Conduct detailed hearing assessments

  • Provide safe earwax removal

  • Treat ear infections medically or surgically

  • Offer hearing aids, customized to your needs

  • Manage chronic conditions and monitor hearing health

We also work closely with families to support children with speech or hearing delays.


Prevention Tips

  • Use ear protection in noisy environments

  • Avoid loud music through earphones

  • Never insert sharp objects into your ears

  • Treat infections and allergies promptly

  • Get your hearing tested regularly, especially after age 40


Conclusion

Hearing loss doesn’t have to mean missing out on life’s important moments. With proper care and early intervention, it can be managed effectively. Whether it’s age-related or caused by an infection, the experts at Care Infinity are here to help you hear better and live better.

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