Types of hearing loss
Temporary hearing loss

Temporary hearing loss can be attributed to exposure to loud sounds, ear wax buildup, or an ear infection.

The most common cause of temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. Over 30 million Americans are exposed to hazardous sound levels on a regular basis. Of the 28 million Americans who have some degree of hearing loss, about one-third have been affected, at least in part, by noise.

Exposure to harmful sounds (i.e., sounds that are too loud or loud sounds over a long time) can cause damage to the inner ear. This is known as Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). This kind of hearing loss may be accompanied by tinnitus, a ringing of the ears, which may diminish and be completely gone over time. However, if exposure is continuous and left untreated, the hearing loss may become permanent and untreatable. If you are in a loud environment and you cannot hear loud speech 3 feet away, you can probably assume that your ears are being exposed to a dangerous noise level.

Temporary hearing loss can be the easiest to remedy and prevent. Treatments include:

• avoiding loud noises;

• wearing ear plugs or other hearing protective devices when involved in a loud activity;

• for infections and wax buildup, regularly cleaning your ears by rinsing them with water and applying eardrops; and

• consulting with your doctor when you suspect an ear infection.

Other types of hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss
Sensorineural hearing loss
Mixed hearing loss
Levels of hearing loss
Hearing loss questionnaire

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