1. What are the main types of hearing loss?
Sensorineural Hearing Loss – This type occurs due to damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve, often resulting in permanent hearing impairment. It is commonly associated with ageing (presbycusis), prolonged exposure to loud noise, genetic factors, or conditions such as Ménière’s disease.
Conductive Hearing Loss – This occurs when sound cannot pass efficiently through the outer or middle ear to reach the inner ear. Causes include earwax build-up, fluid in the middle ear (often due to infections), perforated eardrums, or abnormalities in the ear’s structure.
Mixed Hearing Loss – This is a combination of both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, meaning that there is damage to both the inner ear/auditory nerve and the outer or middle ear. The severity and treatment options depend on the underlying causes of both types.
2. How Often Should I Have My Hearing Tested?
Routine Checks: It is recommended to have your hearing tested every 2–3 years if you do not have any existing hearing concerns.
Age Considerations: Individuals over 50 should consider annual hearing tests, as hearing loss becomes more common with age.
Exposure to Noise: If you are frequently exposed to loud environments (e.g., construction sites, concerts, or industrial workplaces), more frequent testing is advisable.
Existing Hearing Issues: If you have noticed changes in your hearing, experience ringing in your ears (tinnitus), or have a family history of hearing loss, you should book a test as soon as possible.
3. How can I tell if I have hearing loss?
Symptoms include difficulty following conversations, needing higher TV volume, misunderstanding speech, and hearing ringing sounds (tinnitus). Early signs often include trouble with high-pitched sounds like “S” or “F”.
4. Can hearing loss be prevented?
Yes, prevention includes avoiding loud noise exposure, using ear protection, and managing health conditions like diabetes. Regular checkups and early intervention can help preserve hearing.
- Limiting exposure to loud noises (e.g., concerts, heavy machinery).
- Wearing ear protection (earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs).
- Keeping the volume at safe levels when using headphones or earbuds.
5. How Is Hearing Loss Diagnosed?
A hearing specialist conducts tests to evaluate your ability to hear different pitches and volumes. The results help determine the degree and type of hearing loss.
They will then discuss suitable treatment options, which may include hearing aids or other assistive devices. Regular check-ups can help monitor any changes in your hearing over time.
6. How do I know if I need a hearing aid?
Signs include difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments or missing sounds like alarms. An audiologist can perform tests to determine the severity of hearing loss.
7. Are headphones or earbuds harmful to hearing?
Induced hearing loss. Lowering volume and limiting usage can reduce risks.
Yes, prolonged or high-volume headphone and earbud use can cause noise-induced hearing loss. To prevent damage:
- Keep volume below 60% of maximum.
- Follow the 60/60 rule—listen at 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
- Use noise-canceling headphones to avoid the need for high volume.
- Take breaks from headphone use to give your ears rest.
