What Causes Temporary Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss isn’t always permanent, sometimes hearing loss may only last for a few weeks or a few days. This temporary hearing loss can have a number of causes. But if you notice you’re your hearing has not come back within a few days or weeks then you should visit your audiologist. Below are just a few possible causes of temporary hearing loss. 

Earwax

Too much earwax in your ear canal could cause a blockage, which could result in reduced hearing. There are many reasons as to why ears can become blocked with earwax. A common cause is using cotton swabs which typically will push wax further down into the ear rather than helping to remove it, which can lead to earwax becoming impacted. Illnesses and injuries may be affecting the ears may also result in overproduction of earwax, leading to blockages.

You can treat this temporary hearing loss by finding a way to unclog your ears. Eardrops may be a solution, or you could look into professional ear irrigation but talk with your audiologist about removing earwax.

Infections

An infection within your ear could also lead to temporary hearing loss. Viruses, bacteria and fungus can cause the ear canal to become inflamed and narrow, as well as causing fluid build-up in the sinuses behind the ear. This can lead to muffled hearing as less soundwaves are able to travel through the ear canal.

An infection may clear up on its own, however many ear infections require medication. It is best to see a doctor to see if there is any medication that could help with the infection. Your audiologist may recommend you to a doctor, because they cannot prescribe any medications.

Noise Exposure

After being in a loud environment for an extended period of time like a concert or sports venue you may experience ringing in your ears and temporary hearing loss. This should subside within 16 to 48 hours.

Prolonged noise exposure can cause long-term damage, but this can be reduced by resting your ears after long periods of noise. You can try wearing earplugs or earmuffs for protection when in a noisy environment. Try to stick to quiet environments after being in a loud environment for long periods. If hearing loss persists, it may be a sign that it has become permanent and you may want to see an audiologist about getting a hearing aid fitted. 

Medication

Some people report experiencing mild hearing loss after taking certain medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin. This hearing loss is usually temporary until the effects of the medication have worn off. Talk with your doctor if you need to switch medications, which could help with hearing loss. As with noise exposure, tinnitus may also accompany this hearing loss.

You should be wary of regularly taking medication that causes hearing loss. There are cases where medication has caused people permanent hearing loss – by no longer taking medication that causes temporary hearing loss, you can reduce the risk of hearing loss becoming permanent. A doctor may be able to recommend alternative medication. Talk with your audiologist about the treatment options that will be available to you, if you are experiencing hearing loss.