Overview
Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly and may affect one or both ears. It can be conductive (problem in the outer or middle ear) or sensorineural (problem in the inner ear or nerve).
Common symptoms
- Muffling of speech and other sounds
- Difficulty understanding words, especially against background noise
- Frequently asking others to speak more slowly, clearly and loudly
- Needing to turn up the volume of the television or radio
- Withdrawal from conversations and social settings
When to see an ENT
- Sudden hearing loss: This is a medical emergency; seek care within 24-48 hours
- Hearing loss that interferes with daily life
- Hearing loss that is worse in one ear
- Hearing loss associated with ear pain or discharge
- Hearing loss accompanied by severe dizziness or tinnitus
What we do
- Physical examination of the ear canal and eardrum (ruling out wax or infection)
- Pure Tone Audiometry (hearing test) in a soundproof booth
- Tympanometry to check middle ear function
- Review for potential hearing aid suitability or surgical options
Treatment options
- Removal of ear wax or treatment of infections
- Surgical repair of eardrum or middle ear structures
- Hearing aids: Selection and fitting
- Cochlear implants for severe cases