Common ear problems and solutions: Here's how ageing, infections, and medications can impact hearing health

Hearing problems: Recognising early signs of hearing problems, such as struggling to hear conversations in crowded spaces or frequently asking people to repeat themselves, can help in early intervention (Image: Canva)

Hearing health is essential for clear communication and good health. However, factors like ageing, infections, and certain medications may impact hearing, leading to temporary or permanent damage.

While age-related hearing decline is common, infections and ototoxic drugs can accelerate hearing loss if not managed properly, warns Raja S, Audiologist and Founder of Hearzap. “Hearing loss often goes unnoticed until it affects daily interactions," he adds.

Ageing and hearing loss: As you grow older, presbycusis (age-related hearing loss) becomes a common concern. “It typically affects both ears equally and makes it harder to hear high-frequency sounds, impacting speech clarity, especially in noisy environments.

The natural degeneration of sensory cells in the cochlea is the primary cause," he says. However, Raja S says, several other factors contribute to hearing loss, which include:

• Genetic predisposition: Some people are genetically inclined to develop hearing loss earlier.Chronic illnesses: Conditions like hypertension and diabetes can reduce blood supply to the inner ear, accelerating hearing decline.
• Prolonged noise exposure: Lifelong exposure to loud sounds, whether from work environments, concerts, or headphones, increases the risk of hearing damage.

Recognising the early signs, such as struggling to hear conversations in crowded spaces or frequently asking people to repeat themselves, can help in early intervention. "Regular hearing check-ups can detect early signs of hearing decline and offer solutions to manage it effectively," adds Raja S.

• Infections and hearing health: Ear infections, especially otitis media (middle ear infections), are among the leading causes of hearing issues. “These infections create fluid buildup and inflammation, preventing sound from traveling efficiently to the brain. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems and shorter Eustachian tubes. If untreated, recurrent infections can cause permanent damage to the ear structures,” he says.

Beyond ear infections, systemic infections like meningitis can harm the cochlea (inner ear), leading to permanent sensorineural hearing loss. Preventing infections through good hygiene, avoiding smoking, and keeping ears dry is crucial. "Prompt treatment of ear infections is vital to prevent long-term complications. Delaying medical attention can result in irreversible damage to hearing structures," explains Raja S.

• Medications and ototoxicity: Certain medications can damage the inner ear (ototoxicity) and lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss. Some commonly known ototoxic drugs include:
• Aminoglycoside antibiotics: Frequently used to treat severe bacterial infections, these can cause hearing loss in 20 percent to 60 percent of patients.
• Chemotherapy drugs: Medications like cisplatin and carboplatin, used in cancer treatments, are known to damage cochlear cells.
• High-dose aspirin: Excessive aspirin intake can lead to temporary hearing impairment or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

If taking potentially ototoxic drugs, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider about possible alternatives or monitoring strategies. "Patients should discuss medication side effects with their doctors and audiologists to minimise hearing risks," suggests Raja S.

• Regular hearing check-ups: Early detection of hearing loss allows for timely intervention and management.
• Hearing protection: Using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones in loud environments reduces noise-induced damage.
• Medication awareness: Patients should discuss potential hearing risks with their healthcare providers before starting new medications.
• Healthy lifestyle choices: Controlling diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol through diet and exercise supports overall hearing health.