Hearing loss doesn’t happen overnight. It often creeps in slowly—so slowly, you may not even notice it at first. But over time, missed words, repeated questions, and social withdrawal start to take a toll.
At City Hearing, we believe knowledge is the first step to better hearing. Whether you’re concerned for yourself or a loved one, this guide will help you understand what hearing loss is, what causes it, and when it’s time to take action.
“Hearing loss is the partial or total inability to hear sound in one or both ears. It ranges from mild (missing soft sounds) to profound (unable to hear speech at all). It can affect people of any age—including children and teenagers—but it becomes more common as we grow older.”
Common Signs of Hearing Loss
You might be experiencing hearing loss if you:
- Struggle to follow conversations, especially in noisy places
- Often ask people to repeat themselves
- Turn the TV or radio up louder than others prefer
- Mishear words or confuse similar-sounding words
- Feel mentally tired after listening for long periods
- Avoid social situations because of listening difficulty
Types of Hearing Loss
There are two main types:
1. Sensorineural Hearing Loss
The most common type. It’s caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. Often age-related or triggered by prolonged noise exposure, infections, or some medications.
2. Conductive Hearing Loss
Occurs when sound can’t pass efficiently through the outer or middle ear. Causes include wax buildup, fluid, infections, or perforated eardrums. This type may be temporary and treatable.
What Causes Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss can be caused by:
- Ageing (presbycusis)
- Repeated loud noise exposure (e.g. concerts, machinery, earbuds)
- Ear infections or chronic middle ear fluid
- Genetics or family history
- Injury or trauma to the head or ears
- Ototoxic medications (like certain antibiotics or chemotherapy)
- Chronic illnesses (e.g. diabetes, heart disease, viral and vascular conditions)
In many cases, early detection and intervention can preserve or improve your hearing outcome.
Can Children Have Hearing Loss?
Yes. In fact, ear infections are one of the most common causes of hearing problems in children, especially between ages 1 and 6. Untreated hearing loss can affect speech, learning, and social development. That’s why City Hearing offers friendly, age-appropriate Hearing Assessments for children of all ages.
Do I Need Hearing Aids?
Not everyone with hearing loss needs hearing aids—but for many people, they can make a life-changing difference.
Modern hearing aids are:
- Small and discreet (some are nearly invisible)
- Rechargeable and Bluetooth compatible
- Programmed to your exact hearing profile
- Designed to reduce background noise and improve clarity
At City Hearing, we look at hearing options that meet your needs and offer independent advice. If hearing aids are right for you, we will help you choose the best fit based on your hearing goals and lifestyle.
When Should You Get a Hearing assess?
We recommend a hearing assess if:
- You’re over 50 and haven’t had a assess in the last 1–2 years
- You’ve noticed signs of hearing loss
- You work in a loud environment
- You’ve had multiple ear infections
- Someone close to you says you might be missing things
Hearing Assessments are quick, painless, and non-invasive—and they give you a clear picture of your hearing health.
Final Thoughts
Hearing loss doesn’t have to hold you back. Whether it’s reconnecting with family, feeling more confident at work, or simply enjoying the sounds of daily life again, we’re here to help you hear well for life.
