Recognising hearing loss

While it’s important to get as much information as possible, a free hearing check is a quick way to determine if hearing loss is present. The free hearing check is available to everyone aged 18 years and over. We recommend that everyone over the age of 50 has an annual hearing check. It takes 20 minutes and it can be conducted at any one of our clinics.

There are three main types of hearing loss: sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss, and mixed hearing loss.

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common form, occurring when the inner ear or the nerve connecting the ear to the brain is damaged (most often brought on by ageing or loud noise exposure). It is usually permanent and can range from mild to profound.

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is blocked and unable to travel through the outer and middle ear to reach the inner ear. This type of hearing loss tends to be more temporary, as most blockages (e.g., ear infections and wax buildup) are easily treated.

When hearing is affected by factors relating to both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, this is known as mixed hearing loss.

Hearing loss can arise at any age and has various causes. Although it’s most common for those 60+, research shows that self-reported hearing loss in NZ has increased from 7.4% in 2018 to 8.2% in 2022 among the working-age population.

Aside from age-related factors, other causes of hearing loss include:

• Exposure to loud sounds (aka noise-related hearing loss)
• Physical injuries
• Recessive genetic conditions or syndromes (e.g. otosclerosis)
• Acoustic neuroma
• Some medications
• Infections or illness
• Earwax buildup. 

Hearing loss can often be accompanied by other concerns that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Here are some to be aware of:

• Tinnitus – A persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears with no external sound source.
• Mental health – Hearing loss is linked to higher rates of depression, particularly if left untreated.
• Cognitive decline – Research has found that people with age-related hearing loss are at greater risk of developing dementia.
• Fatigue – Straining to hear can be exhausting, leading to physical and mental fatigue.
• Vertigo and dizziness – Hearing loss can also affect balance, particularly when related to Ménière's disease.

Any treatment you may require for hearing loss will depend on the cause and the severity.

Hearing aids are one of the most effective treatments for permanent hearing loss and managing related symptoms such as tinnitus. For temporary hearing loss, Bay Audiology also provides services such as ear wax removal and custom-made ear plugs.

If you’re concerned about your hearing, book a free hearing check today.

It is possible to prevent hearing loss, mainly by reducing exposure to loud noises at every opportunity. Some key prevention tips include:

• Turning the volume of headphones down to a safe listening level <85 decibels
• Wearing hearing protection when working with noisy equipment (e.g. lawn mowers, power tools)
• Reducing the time you’re exposed to loud noise and giving your ears frequent breaks
• Wearing earplugs to concerts, sporting matches, or any other loud events.

If you’re often in the pool, swimming earplugs can also be helpful in preventing infection, which can lead to hearing loss.

It’s never too early to seek help for your hearing. Whether you’ve noticed some symptoms or haven’t had a hearing check in a while, the friendly team at your local Bay Audiology can assist with every ear concern.

Book an appointment today or visit your nearest store to speak to one of our audiologists. 

It can be a challenge when someone close to you is experiencing hearing difficulties. It is not easy to find the right time to start a conversation about hearing loss. Reactions can be mixed, because hearing loss can be a gradual process, which people learn to accommodate and find it difficult to accept. Denial and reluctance to discuss their hearing is common. If you think a friend or family member might be experiencing hearing loss, you are doing the right thing by looking into it. Hearing problems left untreated can negatively impact people’s lives over time. 

Starting a difficult conversation with loved ones is never easy. Bay Audiology is here to help you prepare to open communication channels with a loved one. It’s not always easy for people to accept that they have problems with their hearing. Stress and denial are common. The most important thing is that you make sure they know you’re only having the conversation with them because you care and you want to help.

Get in touch if you need support.