Hearing loss is a very common symptom. The severity may vary from mild to severe and the symptom may be progressive or sudden onset.

It is very important that deafness be taken seriously especially in children so that remedial action can be taken before hearing loss can affect the learning of the child.

The causes of hearing loss are many and varied. E.g. wax, ear infection, age related deafness, vessel diseases, autoimmune diseases, and many more. Wax is particularly a common problem. Age related deafness (also known as presbyacusis) is the commonest cause of deafness in elderly.

There are broadly two types of deafness. First, conductive type - due to problems of middle and external parts of the ear. The other type is sensori-neural. In that case the nerve or connections are affected.

E.g. ear infections cause conductive deafness,
age related nerve loss leads to sensori-neural deafness

ENT physician will evaluate the patient to see whether there is a defect demonstrable that can be remedied, what type of deafness the patient is having, how severe is the deafness and what is the disability the patient is having.

One of the most important tests is Pure Tone Audiogram. In this test hearing can be assessed using a mechanical device that gives off sound. See a related article before.

If there is a treatable condition like wax, the deafness can be treated by removing it.

Generally nerve loss needs some form of a hearing aid.

Latest device that can be used in sensory neural deafness is Cochlear Implants. This is done particularly in children before they lose their ability to learn to hear and speak. (Generally before 2 years). This can be done in adults too. It is done in Sri Lanka as well. The cost is the factor of concern.

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