What Is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is a reduction in your ability to hear sounds. It can range from mild difficulty hearing soft sounds to a profound inability to hear anything at all. Hearing loss can affect one ear or both, and it may develop gradually over time or appear suddenly. It is one of the most common health conditions in Australia, affecting roughly one in six people across all age groups.
Many people live with hearing loss for years before seeking help, often because the changes are so gradual they go unnoticed. However, early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. At SoundClear Hearing Clinic, our audiologists are experienced in diagnosing all forms of hearing loss and guiding patients towards the most effective management strategies.
Types of Hearing Loss
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem transferring sound waves along the pathway from the outer ear to the eardrum and the tiny bones of the middle ear. Common causes include earwax blockages, ear infections, fluid in the middle ear, a perforated eardrum, or abnormal bone growth. Conductive hearing loss is often temporary and can frequently be treated with medication or minor surgery. In many cases, hearing can be fully restored once the underlying cause is addressed.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common type of permanent hearing loss. It occurs when there is damage to the hair cells in the cochlea (inner ear) or to the auditory nerve that carries sound signals to the brain. The most frequent cause is age-related wear and tear, known as presbycusis, but it can also result from prolonged exposure to loud noise, certain medications, head trauma, or genetic factors. While sensorineural hearing loss cannot be reversed, hearing aids and assistive devices can significantly improve hearing ability and communication.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. This means there is damage or obstruction in the outer or middle ear as well as in the inner ear or auditory nerve. For example, a person with age-related sensorineural hearing loss might also develop a middle ear infection that causes a conductive component. Treatment typically involves addressing the conductive portion first, then managing the sensorineural component with hearing aids or other devices.
Degrees of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is measured in decibels (dB) and categorised by severity. Normal hearing ranges from 0 to 20 dB. Mild hearing loss (26 to 40 dB) means you may struggle to hear soft sounds and follow conversations in noisy environments. Moderate hearing loss (41 to 55 dB) makes it difficult to hear normal conversation without hearing aids. Moderately severe loss (56 to 70 dB) requires hearing aids for most communication. Severe hearing loss (71 to 90 dB) means you can only hear loud sounds, and profound loss (over 90 dB) means you rely primarily on visual cues and may benefit from cochlear implants.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss
- Age-related changes to the inner ear (presbycusis)
- Prolonged exposure to loud noise in the workplace or recreational settings
- Ear infections and middle ear fluid
- Earwax impaction blocking the ear canal
- Certain medications that are toxic to the ear (ototoxic drugs)
- Head trauma or injury to the ear
- Genetic factors and hereditary conditions
- Medical conditions such as otosclerosis or Meniere's disease
What to Do Next
If you suspect you may have hearing loss, the most important step is to have a professional hearing assessment. Our audiologists at SoundClear will conduct a thorough evaluation, explain your results clearly, and recommend the best course of action for your individual situation. Early intervention leads to better outcomes, so do not delay seeking help if you have noticed changes in your hearing.
Hearing loss is nothing to feel embarrassed about. It is a common health condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. With the right support and management, most people with hearing loss can continue to enjoy full, active lives.