Causes and treatment of decreased hearing acuity: doctor’s advice
About the symptom
Hearing loss, or hypoacusis, manifests as a decrease in the ability to perceive sounds of varying frequency and intensity. This can be expressed in difficulties distinguishing quiet sounds, understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, as well as the need to increase the volume of the television or other sound sources. Many people do not realize that their hearing is deteriorating and take it for a normal aging process. However, it is important to understand that hearing loss can be the result of various diseases or injuries that require the attention of a specialist.
Moreover, it is worth noting that symptoms can develop gradually, and a person may not immediately notice the changes. However, if you have started to notice that surrounding sounds are being perceived differently, if there are problems with understanding speech, or regular auditory discomforts, such as ringing or noise in the ears, you should see a doctor. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further deterioration of hearing and maintain quality of life.
Diseases
Decreased hearing acuity can be associated with various diseases, which can be conditionally divided into several groups. One of the most common causes of hearing loss is diseases of the ear, such as otitis, which is an inflammation of the auditory apparatus and can lead to temporary or even permanent hearing loss. Additionally, earwax, if it accumulates and forms a plug, can also cause hearing deterioration, underscoring the importance of regular examinations by a specialist.
Other common diseases that lead to decreased hearing include age-related changes known as presbycusis, and noise-induced trauma caused by prolonged exposure to loud sounds. More serious conditions should also be considered, such as Meniere’s disease, characterized by recurrent attacks of dizziness and tinnitus, as well as tumors, for example, vestibular schwannoma, which may not exhibit visible symptoms but lead to significant hearing impairments.
- Otitis
- Earwax (cerumen impaction)
- Presbycusis
- Noise trauma
- Meniere’s disease
- Vestibular schwannoma
- Otosclerosis
- Head trauma
Diagnosis
Diagnosing hearing loss is an integral part of providing medical care to patients with these symptoms. Determining the degree and nature of hearing impairment requires a comprehensive approach, which includes both objective and subjective testing methods. The primary goal of diagnosis is to identify the cause of hearing loss, which can be associated with age-related changes, environmental factors, infections, or injuries.
For accurate diagnosis, doctors specializing in ear, nose, and throat diseases employ various diagnostic procedures. It is important to note that early diagnosis can prevent further deterioration of the condition and even restore hearing if the cause allows for it. Typically, the examination begins with a general examination and an interview with the patient about their symptoms and medical history.
- Audio-metry
- Otoscopic examination
- Tympanometry
- Computed tomography (CT) of the head
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Examination of the ear canal
- Auditory evoked potentials
- Genetic testing (if a hereditary condition is suspected)
Which doctor to consult
If you notice symptoms of decreased hearing in yourself or a close person, it is important not to ignore this problem and seek medical help. Initially, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist (ENT), who will conduct an examination and determine the causes of hearing deterioration. This specialist will help assess the condition of the ears, nose, and throat, as well as identify any inflammatory processes or other pathologies.
Depending on the results of the initial examination, the ENT may refer you to other specialists. For example, a consultation with an audiologist may be necessary for a more detailed hearing assessment, who will conduct hearing tests and determine the degree of hearing loss. In some cases, a consultation with a neurologist may also be required, especially if the hearing loss is related to the nervous system or general diseases of the body.
- Otolaryngologist (ENT)
- Audiologist
- Neurologist
- Therapist
- Ear surgeon (otoneurologist)
Types of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be classified into several types, depending on their causes and manifestations. The primary type is conductive hearing loss, which occurs due to problems with sound transmission through the outer or middle ear. This may be associated with various conditions, such as earwax buildup, ear infection, or barotrauma, making it difficult to perceive sounds. In this case, hearing acuity may be restored if the cause is eliminated.
Another common type is sensorineural hearing loss, which arises from damage to the inner ear, auditory nerve, or central nervous structures. This condition may be the result of age-related changes, noise exposure, infectious diseases, or trauma. Sensorineural hearing loss can be either temporary or permanent, depending on the cause and extent of the damage.
- Conductive hearing loss
- Sensorineural hearing loss
- Mixed hearing loss (a combination of conductive and sensorineural)
- Aging-related hearing loss (presbycusis)
- Trauma-related hearing loss or exposure to toxic substances
Reasons for Decreased Hearing Acuity
Decreased hearing acuity can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which can have a long-term impact on your ability to hear. One of the most common causes is the natural aging of the body, known as presbycusis. This type of hearing loss is usually associated with degenerative changes in the auditory system and often affects both high and low frequencies.
Other causes of decreased hearing acuity may be related to external factors such as exposure to loud sounds, ear infections, head injuries, or even certain diseases. It is important to note that hearing loss can be either temporary or permanent depending on the cause. Therefore, early diagnosis and adequate treatment play a key role in preventing the condition from worsening.
- Presbycusis (age-related hearing loss)
- Noise trauma (exposure to loud sounds)
- Middle ear infections (otitis)
- Head and ear injuries
- Diseases (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
- Hereditary factors and genetic disorders
Common Related Pathologies
Hearing loss may be associated with various pathologies, which in turn can influence the overall health of the patient. One of the most common diseases is otitis, inflammation of the middle ear, which can lead to hearing deterioration due to fluid accumulation and inflammatory processes. Chronic otitis, if not treated properly, can transform into more serious forms, such as cholesteatoma, which requires surgical intervention.
Another common pathology is acoustic neuroma, a benign tumor that can occur on the auditory nerve. This pathology is often accompanied not only by hearing loss but also by tinnitus — ringing in the ears. In addition, problems with the inner ear, such as Meniere’s disease, can also cause episodes of hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and dizziness.
- Otitis (acute and chronic)
- Acoustic neuroma
- Meniere’s disease
- Earwax blockage
- Sensorineural hearing loss
- Cochlear insufficiency
Expert Opinion
Hearing loss is a quite common problem that can affect people of different age groups. According to experts in the field of otolaryngology, this symptom is often a consequence of various diseases, as well as age-related changes occurring in the body. For example, age-related hearing loss, or Presbycusis, is typical for elderly individuals and is associated with the degradation of sensory cells in the inner ear. However, clinical practice shows that hearing loss can develop at a younger age as well, including due to noise exposure, infections, or injuries.
It is important to remember that timely diagnosis and consulting a specialist can significantly improve the quality of life. Many patients in the early stages do not pay attention to changes in their hearing, which can lead to more serious consequences in the future. Experts strongly recommend not to ignore even slight reductions in hearing acuity and to see a doctor at the first signs to avoid deterioration of the condition and ensure more effective treatment.
Treatment of Hearing Loss
The treatment of hearing loss depends on its causes and severity. It is important to consult a specialist as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and timely treatment can significantly improve hearing quality. First and foremost, doctors may recommend conservative treatment methods, such as medication therapy, the use of hearing aids, or auditory perception training. In some cases, especially in the event of significant hearing loss, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Doctors from various specialties may be involved in the treatment process: from otolaryngologists to audiologists who work directly on restoring hearing. Alongside the main treatment, participation in rehabilitation programs may be offered to help the patient adapt to changes and make the most of their remaining hearing abilities.
- Medication therapy
- Use of hearing aids
- Surgical intervention
- Speech therapy sessions
- Rehabilitation programs
Complications
Hearing loss can lead to a number of serious complications that negatively affect the patient’s quality of life. One of the most common consequences is social isolation. People facing hearing difficulties may have trouble communicating with others, which can lead to decreased activity in social life and deterioration of their psycho-emotional state.
Moreover, hearing loss can affect professional activity and career advancement. The inability to fully receive information can become a barrier to successful work in a organized team, which, in turn, may lead to job loss. The development of secondary conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders, is also possible due to constant difficulties in communication and social adaptation.
- Social isolation and loneliness
- Professional difficulties and job loss
- Development of depression and anxiety disorders
- Deterioration of quality of life
- Increased risk of diseases related to the nervous system
FAQ
What are the first signs of decreased hearing acuity and when should one see a doctor?
The first signs of hearing loss may include difficulties in perceiving sounds, especially in noisy environments, the need to turn up the volume of the television or music, and constant strain when trying to understand a conversation. Often, people start to notice that they find it difficult to hear whispers or high frequencies, and those around them may report that they frequently ask for things to be repeated. If you have noticed similar symptoms, it’s worth consulting a doctor, especially if they become more pronounced or affect your quality of life. Early consultation with a specialist can help diagnose the problem and take steps to address it.
What diagnostic methods are used to identify a decrease in hearing acuity?
There are several diagnostic methods used to identify the reduction of hearing acuity. Among the most common are audiometry, which measures the ability to hear sounds of different frequencies and volumes, as well as tympanometry, which allows for the assessment of the condition and function of the middle ear. In addition, the doctor may perform otoscopy to check the condition of the auricle and the ear canal. In some cases, more complex tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be prescribed to rule out the presence of diseases affecting hearing. Each of these methods helps the specialist obtain a complete picture of the patient’s hearing health and determine the necessary treatment.
What treatment is most effective for hearing loss?
The effectiveness of treatment for hearing loss depends on its cause and severity. In most cases, it is advisable to start with conservative methods, such as hearing aids or special sound amplification devices that help patients better perceive surrounding sounds. However, if the cause of hearing loss is infectious or inflammatory processes, medication therapy or even surgical intervention may be required. Treatment should always be prescribed by an otolaryngologist after careful diagnosis and examination, ensuring an individualized approach and maximum effectiveness of therapy.
What is the influence of noise and the environment on the decrease in hearing acuity?
Noise and the environment play a significant role in the development and progression of hearing loss. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds, such as high-volume music, industrial noise, or even constant urban noise, can lead to damage to the sensitive cells in the inner ear, which in turn reduces the ability to perceive sounds. Additionally, unfavorable environmental conditions, including air pollution and chemicals, can also negatively affect hearing and increase the risk of deterioration. It is important to take care of your hearing and, if possible, minimize the negative impact of the external environment to avoid serious health consequences.