Understanding Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options
Hearing loss is one of the most common health concerns in the UK, affecting people of all ages. It can develop gradually over time or occur suddenly — but whatever the cause, it can significantly affect communication, confidence and quality of life.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, our experienced consultants offer expert assessment, modern diagnostic testing and tailored treatment for all types of hearing loss across Hampshire and the South Coast.
Types of Hearing Loss
There are three main categories of hearing loss, each with different causes and treatment approaches:
Conductive hearing loss
Caused by a problem in the outer or middle ear that prevents sound from reaching the inner ear.
Common causes: earwax blockage, ear infections, eardrum perforation, or ossicular (middle ear bone) problems.
Often treatable with medication, microsuction, or surgery.
Sensorineural hearing loss
Results from damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the hearing nerve.
Causes include ageing (presbycusis), noise exposure, viral infections, and some medications.
Usually managed with hearing aids, cochlear implants or assistive listening devices.
Mixed hearing loss
A combination of conductive and sensorineural causes, requiring tailored investigation and treatment.
Common Symptoms of Hearing Loss
You might notice:
Difficulty following conversations, especially in noisy places
Turning up the TV or radio volume
Asking people to repeat themselves
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Feeling that people are “mumbling”
Withdrawal from social situations
If you recognise any of these, it’s worth arranging a specialist hearing assessment.
Diagnosis and Assessment
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we perform comprehensive hearing assessments, including:
Otoscopy – examination of the ear canal and eardrum
Pure tone audiometry – measuring hearing thresholds across frequencies
Tympanometry – assessing middle ear pressure and function
Speech audiometry – evaluating how clearly you hear speech
These tests allow us to pinpoint the cause and type of hearing loss, so we can plan the most effective treatment.
Treatment Options
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
Ear microsuction for wax removal or infection control
Medication for infection or inflammation
Surgery, such as tympanoplasty, ossiculoplasty, or stapedectomy for conductive loss
Hearing aids or bone-anchored devices for sensorineural loss
Cochlear implants in cases of profound hearing loss
Our team provides individualised advice and works closely with audiology specialists to ensure optimal rehabilitation.
Preventing Hearing Loss
Protecting your hearing is vital:
Avoid prolonged exposure to loud music or machinery
Use ear protection in noisy environments
Treat ear infections promptly
Avoid inserting cotton buds or objects into the ear canal
Even small changes in hearing should never be ignored — early assessment leads to better outcomes.
Expert ENT Care in Hampshire
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we are experienced ENT surgeons offering specialist care for hearing loss, ear infections, and tinnitus. Clinics available at Portsmouth, Winchester & Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.
With access to advanced diagnostic tools and modern surgical facilities, our goal is simple: to help you hear clearly and live fully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Hearing Loss
What is hearing loss?
Hearing loss is a reduction in the ability to hear sounds clearly. It may develop gradually over time or occur suddenly and can affect people of all ages. Untreated hearing loss can significantly impact communication, confidence, work, and quality of life.
What are the main types of hearing loss?
There are three main categories:
Conductive hearing loss – caused by problems in the outer or middle ear that block sound transmission (e.g. earwax, infections, eardrum perforation, middle ear bone problems). This type is often treatable or reversible.
Sensorineural hearing loss – caused by damage to the inner ear or hearing nerve (e.g. ageing, noise exposure, viral illness, medications). This is usually permanent but can be managed effectively.
Mixed hearing loss – a combination of conductive and sensorineural elements, requiring tailored investigation and treatment.
What symptoms suggest hearing loss?
Common symptoms include:
Difficulty following conversations, especially in noisy environments
Turning the TV or radio up louder than others prefer
Asking people to repeat themselves
Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
A feeling that people are “mumbling”
Avoiding social situations
If you notice these signs, a specialist hearing assessment is recommended.
How is hearing loss diagnosed?
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, diagnosis typically includes:
Otoscopy – examination of the ear canal and eardrum
Pure tone audiometry – measures hearing thresholds
Tympanometry – assesses middle ear pressure and function
Speech audiometry – evaluates clarity of speech understanding
These tests help identify the type and cause of hearing loss and guide treatment.
Is hearing loss always permanent?
No. Conductive hearing loss caused by wax, infection, or fluid is often reversible. Sensorineural hearing loss is usually permanent, but modern treatments can significantly improve hearing and communication.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment depends on the cause and may include:
Microsuction for earwax removal
Medication for infection or inflammation
Surgery (e.g. tympanoplasty, ossiculoplasty, stapedectomy)
Hearing aids or bone-anchored hearing devices
Cochlear implants for severe or profound hearing loss
Your ENT consultant will tailor treatment to your specific needs.
Can hearing loss be prevented?
Not all hearing loss can be prevented, but risk can be reduced by:
Avoiding prolonged exposure to loud noise
Using ear protection in noisy environments
Treating ear infections promptly
Avoiding cotton buds or objects in the ear canal
Early assessment of even mild hearing changes improves long-term outcomes.
When should I see an ENT specialist?
You should seek specialist assessment if:
Hearing loss is persistent or worsening
Hearing loss is sudden (urgent)
You have hearing loss with tinnitus, dizziness, or ear pain
Hearing problems are affecting work, sleep, or daily life
Where can I access specialist hearing care locally?
Consultant-led ENT assessment and treatment for hearing loss are available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, with clinics across Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.