Common causes of hearing loss and risk factors

Q: Does tinnitus cause hearing loss?

Tinnitus itself does not usually cause hearing loss, but it is often a symptom of underlying auditory damage. In many cases, tinnitus and hearing loss occur together and should be evaluated by a professional.

Q: Do allergies cause hearing loss?

Allergies can lead to temporary hearing loss by causing congestion, fluid build-up or Eustachian tube dysfunction. Once the allergy is treated, hearing usually returns to normal.

Q: Do I need a hearing aid for mild hearing loss?

The answer depends on your lifestyle and listening needs. Even mild hearing loss can affect communication, concentration and social interaction. Early use of hearing aids can improve sound clarity, reduce listening effort and support long-term hearing health.

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What causes hearing loss?

Hearing loss can affect people of all ages and has many possible causes. From natural ageing to medical conditions and environmental factors, understanding what causes hearing loss is the first step towards protecting your hearing health. While some forms of hearing loss develop gradually, others can appear suddenly and require prompt medical attention. Identifying the underlying cause helps determine the most appropriate treatment, whether that involves medical care, hearing protection or hearing aids.

Possible causes of hearing loss

There are several causes of loss of hearing, and they can affect different parts of the auditory system.

One of the most common causes is prolonged exposure to loud noise, such as traffic, industrial machinery, concerts or headphones used at high volume. Noise-related damage often occurs gradually and may go unnoticed at first.

Another major factor is ageing. Age related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, develops over time as the delicate structures of the inner ear deteriorate. Infections, chronic illnesses, genetic factors and certain medications can also contribute to hearing impairment.

Understanding what causes hearing loss in your specific case is essential for choosing the right solution.

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Types of hearing loss

Just as there are a number of possible hearing loss causes, there are also various types of hearing loss:

Sensorineural hearing loss

Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there has been damage to the inner ear or the nerve that connects the ear to the brain. It can be either congenital (present at birth) or an acquired condition.

Conductive hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss is a condition where sounds are blocked from entering the inner ear via the outer or middle ear. The condition can have a variety of causes, such as ear infections, trauma and benign tumours.

Mixed hearing loss

Mixed hearing loss is a condition where hearing loss is due to conditions affecting the external/middle and inner ear. It is a combination of conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss.

Noise induced hearing loss

Noise induced hearing loss is where the structures of the inner ear, including the nerve hair cells in the cochlea, are damaged by noise that is beyond safe levels. It may be the result of an intense one-off exposure or prolonged exposure. Noise induced hearing loss may be gradual, permanent or temporary.

High frequency hearing loss

High frequency hearing loss is where people have trouble hearing sounds between 2,000 and 8,000 Hertz. The condition often occurs when there is damage to the cells within the cochlea from noise, aging, genetics, noise exposure, illness or other environmental factors.

Unilateral hearing loss

Unilateral hearing loss is found in only one ear, with the other ear generally unaffected. It may be congenital or acquired at any point in a person’s life, with the degree of hearing loss ranging from mild to profound.

Hearing loss after ear infection

Hearing loss after an ear infection may or may not be permanent, depending on the severity of the infection. An ear infection is in itself a form of conductive hearing loss, but it can have a lasting impact on hearing if left untreated. Recurring ear infections can result in tympanosclerosis, scarring or thickening of the tympanic membrane, which can impact the movement of the eardrum and general hearing.

Changes in your hearing can be a gradual process or you may experience a sudden change in your hearing health. Loss of hearing may also occur at any age, so it is important to be aware of the signs and causes. Identifying hearing loss is not always that easy and other people may notice changes before you do.

If others have commented on your hearing or you have noticed a change, book a free hearing test to check your hearing health. At Amplifon we are here to help determine which type of hearing loss you have, how it was caused and what can be done to help.

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Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis)

Old age hearing loss is one of the most common forms of hearing impairment worldwide. It typically affects both ears and progresses slowly over the years.

As we age, the sensory cells in the inner ear become less efficient, making it harder to hear high-frequency sounds such as consonants. This can lead to difficulties understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.

Typical hearing loss by age

Typical hearing loss by age can vary, but general patterns are often observed:

40–50 years: mild difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds
60–70 years: noticeable trouble understanding speech, especially with background noise
80+ years: moderate to severe hearing loss affecting daily communication

Regular hearing checks help monitor these changes and support early intervention.

When to consult an audiologist

It’s important to see an audiologist if you notice any changes in your hearing or experience difficulties in everyday situations. You should consult a professional when you:

Struggle to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments
Frequently ask people to repeat themselves
Experience persistent ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus)
Have difficulty hearing the television, phone, or public announcements
Notice sudden changes in your hearing or a feeling of fullness in the ear

An audiologist can assess your hearing, identify the underlying causes, and recommend personalised solutions such as hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or preventive strategies. Early consultation helps protect your hearing and improve your overall quality of life.

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FAQs about hearing loss causes

Does tinnitus cause hearing loss?

Tinnitus itself does not usually cause hearing loss, but it is often a symptom of underlying auditory damage. In many cases, tinnitus and hearing loss occur together and should be evaluated by a professional.

What viruses causes sudden hearing loss?

Sudden hearing loss can sometimes be linked to viral infections. Conditions such as herpes viruses, influenza or mumps may inflame the inner ear or auditory nerve. Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency and requires immediate assessment by an ENT specialist.

Do allergies cause hearing loss?

Allergies can lead to temporary hearing loss by causing congestion, fluid build-up or Eustachian tube dysfunction. Once the allergy is treated, hearing usually returns to normal.

Can bluetooth hearing aids cause hearing loss?

Properly fitted and professionally programmed hearing aids do not damage hearing. On the contrary, they help amplify sounds safely and comfortably, supporting better communication without overexposure.

Should I consult an ENT or audiologist for hearing loss?

People often wonder whether to see an ENT or audiologist for hearing loss. An audiologist specialises in hearing assessments and hearing aid fitting, while an ENT doctor focuses on medical and surgical conditions of the ear. In many cases, both professionals work together to provide comprehensive care.

Do I need a hearing aid for mild hearing loss?

The answer depends on your lifestyle and listening needs. Even mild hearing loss can affect communication, concentration and social interaction. Early use of hearing aids can improve sound clarity, reduce listening effort and support long-term hearing health.

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