If you notice that your hearing isn’t as good as it used to be, you might be thinking about going to see a doctor. On the other hand, you might just think that your ears are a bit blocked and just ignore it. Sometimes, hearing loss is only temporary and it’s caused by something simple, but on the other hand, it could be permanent hearing loss that needs to be treated.
Knowing when you should see a doctor and when it’s something that will just pass can be difficult. Here’s how to tell whether hearing problems are temporary or permanent.
Causes Of Temporary Hearing Loss
There are a few common things that can cause temporary hearing loss, so before you rush out to see a doctor, you should consider whether there are any factors that could be causing your hearing problems.
For example, if you have recently had a cold or an ear infection, it’s likely that you will notice some change in your hearing. Give it a week or so and if there is no change, then you should see a doctor.
Loud noises often lead to temporary hearing issues as well, so if you have been to a concert in the last few days or you have been working in a particularly loud environment, that could be the cause. In most cases, your hearing will go back to normal after a few days but if it doesn’t, you should consider getting a hearing test.
Causes Of Permanent Hearing Loss
Although hearing loss may just be temporary, it could also be permanent and it’s important that you seek advice from a specialist as soon as possible. If your hearing is failing, it’s important that you get hearing aids right away to stop your hearing from getting any worse. People often underestimate how much of an impact hearing loss can have on your life so it’s important that you get the right treatment, but how can you tell if hearing loss is a serious, permanent problem?
Your age is a big factor, so if you are above the age of 60, you should pay close attention to your hearing and see a specialist as soon as you notice any changes.
It’s also important that you get your ears tested often if you work in a loud environment or you are exposed to loud noise on a regular basis. Occasional exposure to loud noises can cause temporary hearing loss but if it is a regular occurrence, you are at risk of permanent hearing loss.
You should also consider your daily habits and whether they might be doing damage to your ears. People that listen to loud music through headphones every day, for example, have a higher risk of permanent hearing loss.
In some cases, your hearing loss may be temporary and there will be a specific reason for it. If you think that it may be temporary, wait a week or so and see if there is any change. If not, go to see a specialist and get your ears tested. However, if you are concerned, it’s always best to be cautious and seek medical advice.