Hearing Loss Causes Explained

We rely heavily on our hearing, and it can be devastating if we start to lose it. So what is it that lessens our hearing? Some hearing loss comes inherently with age and some from health ailments, while other factors include self-inflicted wounds. In fact, a lot of us don’t even know the little things we do that can hurt our hearing. Movements, sounds, and even neglect can negatively impact our hearing.

Because we seem to hear things instantly, we often interpret the actual process of hearing as simple. However, the process is more complicated than it seems. Your ear has three levels to it: The outer, middle and inner ears, all of which have their own role to fulfill when it comes to hearing. First the sound waves enter through the outer ear and head into the middle ear, where little earthquakes are created, which are translated into messages that are given to the brain by the inner ear. Just think of how many impediments there can be to the act of hearing.

One of the most common causes of hearing loss is simple earwax buildup. It doesn’t matter how old you are, earwax buildup can happen to you. A natural barrier to objects and germs, earwax is a yellow-tinged, waxy matter made by your body. However, earwax can build up over time, preventing the passage of sound waves and the vibrations they create. You’ll want to use a spongy material, one that cannot damage your ear, to remove earwax buildup.

Most people will notice a natural reduction in their hearing ability as they age. Over time, the small hairs and tips of the nerves in the inner ear are worn down, which results in impaired hearing that cannot be reversed. Also, punctured eardrums are a common reason for impaired hearing. This can happen when the eardrum is stabbed by a foreign entity, exposed to drastic differences in air compression or piercing sounds. Significantly damaged ear drums may need surgery, but more often than not a puncture or rupture will heal unaided in weeks.

Anomalous bone growth, certain types of tumors and bacterial infections are other reasons for damaged hearing. Of course, the medical actions necessary to correct these problems are very different, as is the level of hearing impairment that can result. Always talk to a doctor if you think your, or a family member’s or friend’s, hearing is in jeopardy. The amount of hearing impairment you suffer from is inconsequential, as it can directly affect your everyday life. It’s never too soon to talk to your doctor about hearing loss.

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