When you think of hearing loss causes, aging and noise exposure are probably the first to mind. While these are some of the most common causes, there are also several ear conditions that can temporarily or permanently interrupt your hearing. Let’s take a look at a few of these conditions, how they’re managed and how you can safeguard your hearing for the long run.
Common Ear Conditions That Can Muffle Hearing
A few common ear conditions that can lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss include:
- Ear infections. An ear infection is a sudden infection of the middle ear, often due to Eustachian tube inflammation, viruses or bacteria. Ear infections are relatively common in children until age eight, but adults can also develop them. These infections occur when fluid builds up behind the eardrum, leading to discomfort, muffled hearing and sometimes fever. Repeated infections can result in long-term hearing difficulties if left untreated.
- Earwax blockages. Earwax serves a protective function by keeping the ear canal clean and free from debris. However, excessive buildup can create a physical blockage, leading to temporary hearing loss, discomfort and a sensation of fullness in the ear. Many people attempt to remove earwax with cotton swabs, but this can push it further into the ear and cause damage. To safeguard your hearing, it’s best to opt for professional removal.
- Acoustic neuroma. An acoustic neuroma, also known as a vestibular schwannoma, is a benign tumor that develops on the nerve responsible for hearing and balance. As it grows, it exerts pressure on the auditory nerve, causing hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and dizziness. Small, asymptomatic tumors may only require monitoring, while larger or symptomatic tumors may necessitate treatment options like hearing aids, radiation therapy or surgical removal.
- Otosclerosis. Otosclerosis is a condition where abnormal bone growth in the middle ear interferes with sound transmission, gradually leading to hearing loss. Mild cases can be managed with hearing aids, which amplify sounds to compensate for the hearing loss. In severe cases, a stapedectomy—a surgical procedure that replaces the affected bone with a prosthetic device—can help restore proper sound conduction and improve hearing ability.
How to Safeguard Your Hearing
Ignoring hearing problems can lead to social withdrawal, difficulty communicating and poor mental health. To protect your hearing, consider the following preventive measures:
- Monitor your hearing. Regular hearing check-ups can help detect issues early.
- Avoid loud noises. Use ear protection in noisy environments like the Brook Arts Center to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
- Seek early treatment. If you notice muffled hearing, pain or fullness in the ear, contact your provider or make an appointment with your hearing specialist.
For more information on protecting your hearing or treating hearing loss, contact Speech & Hearing Associates today.