Hearing Loss Causes: Why Your Hearing May Be Changing

In this article, we explain how hearing works, the types of hearing loss, and the most common causes of hearing loss. We also look at everyday signs of hearing loss, how hearing is tested, available treatments such as hearing aids and cochlear implants, and simple next steps to get back your hearing and quality of life. If you or someone you love has noticed difficulty hearing, this guide is a helpful place to start.

How Hearing Works and Where Hearing Loss Starts

To understand hearing loss causes, it helps to know how hearing works. Sound waves travel through the air and enter the ear canal, where they are guided toward the eardrum. The outer ear plays a key role in collecting these sound waves and directing them inward.

The sound vibrations then pass through the middle ear, where tiny bones amplify them and send them to the inner ear. Inside the inner ear, thousands of delicate hair cells move in response to sound. These movements create electrical signals that travel along the auditory nerve to the brain, where sound is recognized and understood.

Problems can occur at any point along this pathway. Blockages or infections in the outer or middle ear or damage to the inner ear and auditory nerve can interrupt hearing and lead to different types of hearing loss.

Types of Hearing Loss and How They Relate to Its Causes

Hearing professionals classify hearing problems into different types of hearing loss based on which part of the hearing system is affected. Identifying the type helps pinpoint the cause of hearing loss and guides the best treatment options.

Any type of hearing loss can be temporary or permanent.

Causes of Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the inner ear, the hair cells, or the auditory nerve. This is the most common type of hearing loss.

Frequent causes include age-related hearing loss and long-term exposure to loud sounds. Because hair cells in the inner ear do not regenerate, sensorineural hearing loss is usually permanent. However, modern hearing technology such as cochlear implants can significantly improve communication and quality of life.

Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss happens when sound cannot travel efficiently through the outer or middle ear to the inner ear. Common examples include earwax blocking the ear canal, ear infection, fluid in the middle ear, or structural problems.

Some causes of hearing loss in this category are temporary and may improve with medical treatment. Others may require longer-term management and lead to permanent hearing loss, if not addressed early.

Causes of Mixed Hearing Loss

Mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. This means there is both damage to the inner ear and a problem in the outer or middle ear.

Because mixed hearing loss involves more than one issue, treatment plans are often more complex and tailored to the individual.

Common Hearing Loss Causes For Adults

There are many reasons for hearing loss, and they can affect people of all ages. Some causes of hearing loss appear suddenly, while others develop slowly over years.

The most common hearing loss causes for adults and older adults fall into a few main categories:

• Aging
• Loud noises
• Infections
• Medical conditions

Thinking about which of these may apply to you can help guide conversations with a hearing professional.

Getting Older: Age-Related Hearing Loss

Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is one of the most common causes of hearing loss in adults. Over time, natural changes in the inner ear and hair cells can lead to gradual bilateral high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss.

This type of hearing loss is usually permanent, but many people benefit greatly from hearing aids or other hearing solutions such as cochlear implants.

Loud Noises and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

Exposure to loud noises, either suddenly or over long periods of time, can damage the auditory system and lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). NIHL can affect people of all ages, including children, younger adults, and older adults.

Depending on the type of noise exposure, NIHL may present as sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), conductive hearing loss (CHL), or mixed hearing loss (MHL). Sudden, extremely loud sounds (such as explosions or acoustic trauma) can damage not only the inner ear hair cells but also the eardrum or the ossicular chain in the middle ear, leading to CHL or MHL. In contrast, long-term or repeated exposure to loud noise causes damage to the inner ear and always results in SNHL.

Common sources include loud music, power tools, workplace noise, and loud recreational activities. Without proper hearing protection, noise-related damage can become permanent.

Ear Infections and Middle Ear Problems

An ear infection or ongoing fluid in the middle ear can prevent sound from reaching the inner ear properly. Repeated infections may contribute to conductive hearing loss, especially in children.

The good news is that many outer and middle ear problems can be treated, improving hearing when addressed early.

Medical Conditions and Medications

Some medical conditions affect blood flow, nerves, or inner ear structures and can be among the causes of hearing loss. Certain medications or treatments may also impact hearing in some individuals.

If you suspect medical issues may be contributing to hearing changes, you should seek out a professional evaluation.

Other Reasons for Hearing Loss

Injuries, sudden changes in hearing, or multiple factors acting together can also explain hearing loss. Considering all possible reasons for hearing loss helps ensure nothing is overlooked.

Why Understanding the Cause of Hearing Loss Matters

Knowing the specific causes of hearing loss helps professionals recommend the most effective treatment. Understanding the causes of deafness or hearing loss can also make hearing changes easier to accept and manage.

Identifying the cause early may help treat the causes, protect remaining hearing and support long-term planning to improve communication and well-being.

How Hearing Loss Causes Are Diagnosed

When there are signs of hearing loss, the first step is getting hearing tested. Hearing tests are straightforward and painless, and they provide valuable information about hearing ability.

Testing can identify the type of hearing loss, possible causes of hearing loss, and whether further evaluation is needed. You can even start with an online hearing test before scheduling an in-person appointment.

Audiologists often use tools like an audiogram to map hearing levels and guide recommendations.

Treatment Options Based on Different Hearing Loss Causes

Treatment depends on the type of hearing loss and its underlying cause. Even permanent hearing loss can often be managed effectively with the right solution.

Options may include medical treatment or a bone conduction device for conductive hearing loss, mixed hearing loss, and single-sided deafness. Middle ear implants may be considered for certain conductive, mixed, or sensorineural hearing losses, particularly when conventional hearing aids are not suitable or effective. For sensorineural hearing loss, hearing aids are commonly recommended, while more severe cases may benefit from cochlear implants.

When Hearing Aids Can Help

Hearing aids amplify sound and are commonly used for sensorineural, conductive , or mixed hearing loss. They are selected based on hearing tests, lifestyle needs, and personal preferences.

When Cochlear Implants May Be an Option

A cochlear implant bypasses damaged parts of the inner ear and sends electrical signals to the auditory hearing nerve, allowing sound to reach the brain. Cochlear implants may be considered when hearing aids no longer provide enough benefit for severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss or special types of hearing loss.

They can be an option for both adults and children, depending on individual needs.

Next Steps You Can Take Today

If you are concerned about hearing changes, start by taking an online hearing test and then having your hearing tested by a professional. Learn more about the different types of hearing loss, explore options such as hearing aids or cochlear implants, and seek guidance tailored to your situation.

Taking action early can protect your hearing, improve communication, and support better quality of life.