Overview
Hearing loss can be present from birth or develop over time. Early diagnosis is important, especially in children, because hearing affects speech, learning and social life.
Symptoms
- Difficulty following conversations, especially in noise
- Asking people to repeat themselves
- Turning up the TV volume
- Ringing in the ears
- Delayed speech in children
Causes and risk factors
Causes include ageing, loud noise, earwax, ear infections, glue ear, injury, certain medicines, genetic conditions and infections in pregnancy.
Diagnosis
An ENT specialist examines the ears and arranges hearing tests (audiometry). Newborns can have hearing screening.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and may include removing earwax, treating infections, hearing aids, surgery or cochlear implants.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you notice hearing loss. Seek urgent care for sudden hearing loss in one ear, which needs prompt treatment.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
