Hearing loss is more common than many people realise. Understanding its possible signs, causes and different types can help you take appropriate steps towards professional hearing care and better communication.
Hearing loss means reduced ability to hear sounds compared with normal hearing. It may affect one ear or both ears and can range from mild to profound. Hearing loss can occur at any age, and the appropriate care depends on its cause, type, severity and individual communication needs.
Hearing happens through a connected pathway. Sound is collected by the outer ear, transferred through the middle ear and converted into signals inside the inner ear before reaching the brain.
The visible ear collects sound and directs it through the ear canal toward the eardrum.
The eardrum and tiny middle-ear bones transfer and amplify sound vibrations toward the inner ear.
The cochlea converts sound vibrations into electrical signals that the auditory system can use.
The signals travel through the auditory nerve to the brain, where they are interpreted as sound.
Occurs when sound transmission through the outer or middle ear is reduced.
Involves the inner ear, sensory cells or auditory nerve pathways.
A combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Difficulties can also occur in how auditory information is processed within the nervous system.
Age-related changes can affect hearing.
Repeated loud sound can damage hearing.
Ear disease or infection may affect hearing.
Genetic factors can contribute to hearing loss.
Impacted earwax can block sound transmission.
Some medicines can affect hearing.
Some health conditions are associated with hearing loss.
Trauma may damage structures involved in hearing.
These everyday situations can be useful signs that it may be time to arrange a professional hearing assessment.
a professional hearing assessment can help identify whether hearing loss may be present.
