Hearing Loss

Loss of hearing can be caused by many things. It's important to understand the cause of your hearing loss so you can receive the most effective treatment and avoid any further hearing loss. 

Common causes of conductive hearing loss include:

• earwax build-up

• fluid in the ears from colds or allergies

• middle ear infections

• swimmers’ ear 

• problems with the eustachian tube

• a ruptured eardrum or perforated eardrum

• tumours in the ear

• a foreign object in the ear

• congenital conditions that affect the development of the outer ear

Common causes of sensorineural hearing loss include:

• ageing

• certain illnesses, including heart disease, high blood pressure, strokes, and diabetes

• inner ear damage caused by a medication

• certain genetic conditions

• trauma to the head

• long-term exposure to loud noises

• congenital infections

At Welbeck, our specialist ear, nose and throat (ENT) consultants, can make an accurate diagnosis of hearing loss, and identify the cause, by conducting a range of tests, including:

• an examination of your ears
• hearing and balance tests
• CT scans
• MRI scans

While some causes of hearing loss can’t be avoided, the following habits can significantly reduce risk:

• protect your ears from loud noise – use ear protection in noisy environments and keep personal audio devices at safe volume levels

• adopt safe listening habits – limit headphone use and avoid prolonged exposure to high volumes

• look after your general health – manage conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can affect hearing

• be aware of medication risks – some medicines are ototoxic (toxic to the ears); discuss any concerns with your doctor

• treat ear infections promptly – good ear care and early treatment can prevent long-term damage

• have regular hearing checks – early detection of hearing changes allows faster intervention and better long-term outcomes

If hearing loss is left untreated or inadequately managed, a number of secondary problems may arise, including:

• communication difficulties and social isolation

• emotional and psychological effects – frustration, anxiety, embarrassment, low self-esteem, and depression

• occupational and educational impact

• accidents and safety risks – impaired hearing can reduce awareness of auditory warnings (like sirens, alarms, approaching vehicles), increasing the risk of accidents

• increased tinnitus and balance problems

• social and family strain
  
  

Your consultant will be able to recommend the most effective treatment for your hearing loss, based on its cause.

Treatments for short-term hearing loss include microsuction, ear drops, antibiotics, nasal sprays, and oral or injected steroids.

In some long-term cases of hearing loss, operations such as grommets, tympanoplasty, or stapes surgery can be used to restore hearing.

In cases where hearing loss is due to age or noise-related issues in the inner ear, a hearing aid is usually recommended. Occasionally, if hearing levels are very low, a cochlear implant may be recommended.

At Welbeck, our ear, nose and throat specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.  

Can hearing loss be different in each ear, and how does that change management?

Yes. In fact, it’s common to have different levels of hearing loss in each ear. Treatment plans may differ: for example, you might use a hearing device in only one ear (unilateral fitting) or both (bilateral), depending on your hearing test results and daily communication needs.

Can untreated hearing loss affect cognitive function over time?

Research shows that untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of cognitive decline as the brain receives less auditory stimulation. Early use of hearing support, such as hearing aids, may help keep the brain engaged and support long-term cognitive health.

Is it safe to use headphones if I already have hearing loss?

Headphones can still be used safely, but it’s important to keep the volume at a moderate level and take regular listening breaks. Some modern headphones include volume-limiting features or sound profiles designed specifically for users with hearing loss.

Can hearing loss affect balance or increase the risk of falls?

Yes. The inner ear plays a large role in balance, and people with hearing loss may rely more on visual cues and become less stable in low-light or noisy environments. Balance exercises and vestibular assessments can help reduce the risk of falls.