Ear
Hearing loss
Hearing loss may be gradual or sudden, and early evaluation helps protect communication, learning, work, and quality of life.
Hearing loss can arise from wax, infection, eardrum perforation, ossicle problems, otosclerosis, inner ear damage, noise exposure, aging, trauma, or nerve related causes. The correct plan depends on clinical examination and hearing tests.
01
Common symptoms
Difficulty hearing conversation
Needing louder TV or phone volume
One sided hearing reduction
Ear fullness or pressure
Tinnitus or dizziness
02
How ENT evaluation may be done
Ear examination
Pure tone audiometry
Tympanometry when middle ear disease is suspected
Speech discrimination in selected cases
Imaging when one-sided or nerve related causes are suspected
03
Treatment options
Wax or infection treatment
Middle ear surgery in selected conductive loss
Hearing aid guidance
Cochlear implant referral pathway when appropriate
Hearing protection advice
04
Home care and preparation
Avoid loud noise exposure
Use hearing protection
Do not delay sudden hearing loss
Bring previous audiograms
05
Questions to ask during consultation
What type of hearing loss do I have?
Is it reversible?
Do I need a hearing aid or surgery?
Should the other ear be monitored?
Warning signs
When to seek urgent care
Sudden hearing loss is urgent, especially with vertigo, tinnitus, neurological symptoms, or one-sided onset.
This page is for general educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional.