Have you ever asked someone to repeat themselves more than once yet still have trouble hearing them, ultimately giving up and just laughing as if you understood?
If the answer is yes, you’re not alone. In reality, adult hearing loss is more common than many people think, and it can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle.
The good news? Understanding the early signs of hearing loss in adults and knowing what causes them is the first step toward protecting your hearing. Whether you’re starting to notice subtle changes or supporting someone you love, this guide can help you make sense of it all.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common causes of hearing loss in adults and how to prevent them!
What Is Hearing Loss in Adults?
Before we dive into the causes, it helps to understand what hearing loss really means. Put simply, hearing loss happens when one or both ears can’t pick up sounds as well as they used to. It may be gradual or sudden, mild or severe—but either way, it can have a big impact on your daily life.
At clinics like Audience Hearing, we often see patients who come in thinking their issue is minor—only to find out it’s part of a larger pattern. That’s why catching the signs and symptoms of hearing loss in adults early is so important.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss
Ageing (Presbycusis)
Let’s start with the most common cause: ageing. Known medically as presbycusis, this type of hearing loss happens naturally as we grow older. It typically starts with trouble hearing high-pitched sounds—like birds chirping or children speaking—and gradually gets worse over time.
Why it happens: Tiny hair cells in your inner ear help you hear. As you age, these cells start to wear out and stop working properly. Once they’re damaged, they don’t grow back.
What to watch for: Struggling to follow conversations in a group or asking people to repeat themselves more often.
Excessive Noise Exposure
Do you work in a noisy environment? Have you been to loud concerts without ear protection? Long-term exposure to loud sounds is another leading cause of hearing loss in adults.
Why it happens: Loud noise can damage those same hair cells in the inner ear. This can happen slowly over time or suddenly after one very loud sound.
What to watch for: A ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or muffled hearing after a loud event that doesn’t fully return to normal.
Earwax Buildup
It may sound simple, but too much earwax can block your ear canal and make sounds harder to hear. While this type of hearing loss is usually temporary, it’s still something to look out for—especially if you use cotton buds regularly, which can push wax further in.
Why it happens: The ear naturally produces wax to protect itself, but sometimes it builds up too much and creates a blockage.
What to watch for: Sudden hearing loss in one ear, a feeling of fullness, or ringing in the ears.
What you can do: Don’t try to clean it yourself. At Audience Hearing, we offer safe and professional earwax removal that protects your ears from damage.
Ear Infections or Medical Conditions
Sometimes, hearing loss is linked to an underlying illness like diabetes, heart disease, or frequent ear infections.
Why it happens: Certain health conditions can affect blood flow or increase fluid build-up in the ear, both of which can interfere with hearing.
What to watch for: Sudden hearing changes, dizziness, or a history of recurring infections.
Ototoxic Medications
Certain medications can harm your hearing. These are called ototoxic drugs and include some antibiotics, chemotherapy treatments, and high-dose aspirin.
Why it happens: These drugs can damage the hearing structures in the inner ear, especially when taken in high doses or over long periods.
What to watch for: Hearing changes shortly after starting a new medication. Always consult your doctor if you notice this.
Head or Ear Injuries
An injury to the head or ear can cause both temporary and permanent hearing loss.
Why it happens: Trauma can damage the eardrum, inner ear, or the part of the brain that processes sound.
What to watch for: Sudden hearing loss after an accident or fall, especially if combined with dizziness or pain.
Genetics and Family History
Yes, hearing loss can run in the family. If your parents or grandparents experienced hearing loss, you might be more likely to develop it too—even if you’ve taken care of your ears.
Why it happens: Certain types of hearing loss are inherited. You might not notice any issues until you’re older.
What to watch for: Gradual hearing changes that start earlier than expected, especially if other family members had similar experiences.
Signs and Symptoms of Hearing Loss in Adults
Recognising the early signs of hearing loss in adults is crucial. Some common signs include:
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Turning up the TV or radio louder than others prefer
- Struggling to hear in noisy environments
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Feeling like people are mumbling or not speaking clearly
Treatment for Hearing Loss in Adults
The right treatment for hearing loss in adults depends on what’s causing it and how severe it is. In many cases, hearing aids are the most effective solution. At Audience Hearing, we offer:
- Comprehensive hearing tests
- Custom hearing aid fittings
- Hearing aid adjustments and repairs
- Ongoing support and education
We also provide services like professional earwax removal and tinnitus management, helping you hear more clearly and live more confidently.
Take the First Step Toward Better Hearing
Hearing loss doesn’t have to hold you back. If you’ve noticed any signs and symptoms of hearing loss in adults, Audience Hearing is here to help. Our caring team will take the time to explain your options and find a solution that works best with your needs.
Visit us today or book a consultation online. Let’s make sure you don’t miss out on the moments that matter most.
