Is hearing loss always permanent? This is a popular question, and one that is very important to understand and investigate if you are experiencing any type of difficulty hearing. There are different types of hearing loss, and not all hearing loss is permanent. If you have temporary hearing loss it is important to understand the underlying cause, and seek treatment so it doesn’t become permanent.
Causes of temporary hearing loss
Health-related issues, including allergies, or an obstruction can cause temporary hearing loss. Any time you notice changes in your hearing, you should seek medical attention. Depending on the cause, you might need to see an audiologist or an ear, nose & throat specialist.
Here are some causes of temporary hearing loss:
- Too much ear wax. Earwax is produced in order to protect our ears and prevent foreign objects from getting into the ear canal. However, sometimes too much ear wax can build up to the point where it interferes with your hearing. If you believe that you have a buildup of earwax, you should seek professional help to have it removed. Trying to remove it yourself can make the situation worse.
- Foreign object stuck in the ear canal. Besides earwax buildup, other foreign objects that don’t belong in the ears often can become lodged inside the canal and could cause temporary hearing loss until they are removed. Once again, do not try to remove anything yourself. This could risk the object getting lodged further inside the ear canal, and that can cause more harm or even permanent damage to your ear. Instead, seek professional help from an audiologist, ear, nose & throat specialist, or other medical professional. If you have an object stuck in your ear (or your child’s), seek treatment immediately, even if that means urgent care or the emergency room.
- High blood pressure. Even if you haven’t noticed a link between high blood pressure and your hearing, consult your doctor about whether addressing your blood pressure before you risk serious health issues. High blood pressure can cause a buzzing or ringing in the ears also known as tinnitus.
- Strenuous exercise. While exercising is important for your wellness, in some cases if you go beyond your fitness level and overexert yourself, it can result in a temporary hearing loss. Symptoms usually dissipate in a few hours; if they continue seek medical attention.
- Ear infection. When you have an ear infection in the outer ear or the middle ear, it may cause temporary hearing loss. Treatment is usually given in the form of oral antibiotics. If you experience hearing loss due to an infection, your hearing should begin to improve as the infection clears up. If you still have issues hearing after you have finished your antibiotics, speak with your physician or contact your hearing care provider.
- Hole in the eardrum. Also called a perforation, a hole in your eardrum is usually the result of trauma. Sometimes it may also be caused by a quick change in air pressure or pressure build-up during a middle ear infection. Smaller perforations will usually heal on their own, however in more severe cases a specialist may have to perform tympanoplasty to patch the eardrum. Hearing will return to normal once the hole has closed up.
Permanent hearing loss – Does noise-induced hearing loss last forever?
In many cases noise-induced hearing loss is permanent hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss can occur after exposure to a single, extremely loud noise, such as an explosion. However, it can also happen after being exposed to relatively loud noise over many years. Over time, even household noises, such as a vacuum cleaner, your lawn mower or even a blender can take a toll on your hearing.
Other causes of permanent hearing loss
Certain illnesses with associated high fevers, such as measles and meningitis, can cause permanent hearing loss. While many “childhood illnesses” aren’t as common as a century ago,
For more information on permanent hearing loss
The Campaign for Better Hearing works with hearing care providers across the country to educate the public about the risk of hearing loss. If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, we encourage you to make an appointment with one of our affiliated practices to learn more about the causes and treatment, and to learn if you have permanent hearing loss.*
