Hearing loss is a rapidly emerging issue in today’s busy, noisy world. It can strike individuals of all ages and drastically affect their lifestyle if not addressed. Knowledge of the frequent causes and taking proactive steps can contribute to the conservation of hearing well-being. Novena ENT-Head & Neck Surgery Specialist Centre, Singapore’s top ENT specialist, provides specialist assessment, diagnosis, and management for hearing loss. With a focus on preventive care and early intervention, their team helps patients maintain optimal hearing health. This article explores the top causes of hearing loss Singapore and provides actionable tips to protect against it.
Most Common Causes of Hearing Loss
Loss of hearing is caused by numerous different factors, from aging to environmental noise. If individuals know the reasons, they can take steps to protect their hearing.
1. Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis)
As people age, the tiny hair cells in the inner ear that transmit sound signals to the brain begin to deteriorate. This condition, known as presbycusis, is one of the most common causes of hearing loss in older adults. It usually affects both ears and progresses gradually, making it difficult to notice until the hearing loss becomes significant.
Prevention Tip: Whereas aging is inevitable, hearing screening at Novena ENT on a regular basis can identify early evidence of presbycusis. Intervention early on can reverse progression and enhance quality of life.
2. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
Loud sounds over an extended period, e.g., concerts, construction, or even playing headphones at high levels, can destroy the tiny structures in the inner ear. Noise-induced hearing loss can be avoided but is typically irreversible once the damage is done.
Preventive Tips: Avoid exposing yourself to noisy environments and use noise-reducing earphones to prevent harming your ears. ENT doctors in Singapore inNovena ENT also recommend using ear protection for oneself when an individual is exposed to high-decibel environments.
3. Ear Infections and Blockages
Recurring ear infection, particularly in children, can result in temporary or permanent hearing loss when not treated. Earwax blockage or build-up of fluid in the ear can prevent sound conduction and impair hearing. Ongoing infections have the potential to cause damage to the eardrum or the structures of the middle ear.
Prevention Tip: Get immediate treatment for ear infection and do not place foreign objects in the ears. Novena ENT offers full management of ear infection and does safe ear cleaning procedures to avoid complications.
4. Genetic and Congenital Factors
It may also be inherited or congenital due to genetics or pregnancy complications. Congenital hearing loss is from mild to severe and might need to be addressed with early intervention for proper speech and language development.
Prevention Tip: In families with a history of hearing loss, regular hearing tests and genetic counseling can identify problems early on. Novena ENT haspediatric ENT specialisms to evaluate and treat congenital conditions of the ears.
5. Ototoxic Medications
Some medications, such as antibiotics, chemotherapy agents, and large amounts of aspirin, are ototoxic, i.e., can harm the inner ear and result in hearing loss. Patients who receive long-term medication therapy are more susceptible.
Prevention Tip: Talk over possible side effects with a doctor and choose alternatives whenever available. Novena ENT offers professional advice on hearing risk management due to medication.
6. Trauma and Head Injuries
Extreme head injuries or unexpected trauma can cause damage to the auditory system and result in permanent or temporary loss of hearing. Trauma that involves the brain or auditory nerve can interfere with the process of transmitting sound waves.
Prevention Tip: Protect yourself with gear when engaging in high-risk sports like contact sports or biking. Novena ENT provides specialized services for trauma-related hearing problems and ensures proper treatment and diagnosis.
7. Long-Term Illnesses
Chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions decrease the flow of blood to the inner ear and can result in long-term hearing loss. Lack of good management of chronic illnesses makes a patient prone to hearing loss.
Prevention Tip: Well-controlled chronic disease can be sustained with timely follow-ups and good healthy practices. Novena ENT promotes monitoring the hearing of patients with concurrent chronic diseases.
Actionable Tips to Sustain Hearing Health
Protection of the hearing is a mix of lifestyle adaptations and ongoing surveillance. Some helpful steps to prevent hearing damage are listed below:
1. Restrict Exposure to Prolonged Loud Noise
Noise-induced hearing loss can be avoided. Reduce the volume while listening through headphones and limit exposure to noisy environments. Weather protection, e.g., earplugs or earmuffs, while attending concerts or when at work in noisy environments.
2. Schedule Regular Hearing Screenings
Early detection of hearing impairment is possible by regular hearing tests. Novena ENT recommends routine screening, especially for patients aged over 50 years or individuals who are regularly in loud places. Early treatment allows effective management and regulation.
3. Keep Your Ears Clean Safely
Do not use cotton buds or insert objects into the ears to clean them. Improper cleaning can push earwax deeper into the ears, resulting in blockages and damage. Novena ENT provides safe and effective ear cleaning procedures to prevent complications.
4. Treat Chronic Health Conditions
Monitor diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions that can impair blood flow to the ears. Proper blood flow is critical to providing optimal hearing.
5. Exercise Caution with Medications
If ordered to take ototoxic drugs, consult with a medical professional regarding alternative drugs or reduced dosages. Hearing change may be picked up early with regular monitoring.
Why Visit Novena ENT for Hearing Needs?
Novena ENT-Head & Neck Surgery Specialist Centre is a long-standing specialist ENT service provider in Singapore. They possess a panel of experienced ENT specialists in Singapore who provide customized treatment plans to address a range of hearing problems. Equipped with the latest diagnostic technology, they perform comprehensive evaluations to diagnose the cause of hearing loss and recommend the appropriate solutions.
Services Include:
- Hearing Assessments: Precise assessment of the function of hearing for the early detection of problems.
- Management of Ear Infections: Specialized treatment to avoid lasting complications.
- Hearing Rehabilitation: Personalized solutions, such as hearing aids and cochlear implant Singapore.
- Pediatric ENT Services: Specialized services for hearing conditions at birth in children.
When to Visit an ENT Specialist in Singapore?
If you suffer from chronic hearing problems, pain in the ear, or realize that your hearing capacity is declining, it’s time to seek the advice of an ear specialist Singapore. Novena ENT provides professional care and timely intervention to safeguard your hearing and enrich your lifestyle.
Book a Hearing Test Today
Preserve your hearing by booking an appointment for a rightful test at Novena ENT Head & Neck Surgery Specialist Centre. Book an appointment via call (65) 6933 0451 or WhatsApp (65) 9822 7197. The right treatment at the right time can do magic in conserving your hearing.
