What Causes Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss is a common condition that can occur with age, but the reasons for hearing loss can vary among individuals. Here, we will discuss common causes of hearing loss.

Age

As previously mentioned, hearing loss can occur with advanced age. In fact, up to half of individuals in the U.S. over the age of 65 have some form of hearing loss.

High blood pressure and diabetes are two potential contributors to hearing loss among seniors.

Loud noise

Chronic exposure to loud noise is another common cause of hearing loss.

Loud noises can come from things such as blasting music or lawnmowers.

Talk to one of our hearing specialists about how to protect your ears if your occupation subjects you to chronic loud noises, which puts you to risk of hearing loss.

Loud noise can also affect tinnitus, a condition in which one experiences ringing in the ears.

Medical conditions

Several diseases and medical problems can contribute to hearing loss. Otosclerosis and Ménière’s disease, for example, are two conditions that can cause loss of hearing.

If you experience sudden hearing loss, see a doctor right away to see if an autoimmune disorder is the culprit. Medical treatments can help keep the damage to a minimum.

Certain medical therapies can help treat or prevent further hearing loss if medical conditions are to blame for hearing loss.

Medications

Talk to your doctor to see if any of your medications could contribute to hearing loss. Be sure to mention OTC drugs. For instance, large amounts of aspirin can be detrimental to your hearing.

Injury

Trauma to the head or ear can damage the ear. Conditions such as traumatic brain injury, middle ear damage, or eardrum holes can cause one to lose their hearing.

Genetics

Hearing loss can also be an inherited condition.

What Should You Do?

Your doctor or a trained hearing professional can help best help determine your degree of hearing loss and suggest treatments.

Book a Free Hearing Consultation at Sandia Hearing Aids Santa Fe

Our hearing professionals can help you determine your level of hearing loss, if any, and recommend a variety of products that can help you get back to enjoying your normal activities again