- Some hearing loss can improve, including cases caused by a wax blockage, pressure issues behind the eardrum, or a structural problem some specialists can treat, sometimes with surgery.
- Hearing loss is very often permanent and irreversible, particularly when it's nerve-related, whether from a natural process, an injury, or noise exposure.
- A hearing test shows which type of hearing loss is present, which part of the hearing system is affected, and whether a referral to a specialist is needed.
- A sudden drop in hearing in one ear needs urgent medical care, not an assumption that it's permanent; it could be something simpler, like wax.
Hearing loss that can sometimes improve
- Wax blockage. Sometimes hearing is reduced because wax is blocking the ear canal. Removing it can help.
- Pressure issues behind the eardrum.
- A structural problem with the ear. Some of these can be treated by specialists, sometimes with surgery.
Hearing loss that is usually permanent
Very often, hearing loss is permanent and irreversible. This is commonly the case when it is nerve-related, which means the hearing system itself has deteriorated. That may be a natural process, an injury, or noise exposure.
Finding out which type you have
A hearing test shows what type of hearing loss you have and which part of the ear system it is coming from. It can also show whether you need a referral to a specialist, and what your options are.
What this means for you
If you already wear hearing aids and your hearing suddenly feels worse, don't assume it is permanent. It could be something simpler, like wax. Our guides on what to expect at a ClearEars appointment and why your ears feel blocked or full explain what we can check. If your hearing drops suddenly in one ear, read our guide on sudden hearing loss and seek medical care as soon as possible.
Need a hand?
Call us on 0800 737 662 or pop into your local studio.
Sources
- [Clinical reviewer to add a verified reference on causes and reversibility of hearing loss before publishing.]
Resonate. The Podcast
Hi, I’m Kevin, Audiologist at Resonate Health Napier
