Symptoms
Muffled sounds, difficulty following speech, needing higher volume, or asking for repetition.
Hearing conditions
Hearing loss
A reduced ability to hear sounds or understand speech, which can affect one or both ears.
Causes
Changes in the inner ear, ear canal blockage, middle-ear conditions, medications, illness, or other health factors.
Risk factors
Age, family history, noise exposure, certain medications, chronic health conditions, and prior ear disease.
Testing
A clinician may examine the ears and arrange a comprehensive hearing evaluation, including audiometry.
Treatment
Care depends on the cause and may include wax removal, medical treatment, hearing technology, communication strategies, or referral.
When to seek medical attention
Arrange an evaluation for persistent or worsening hearing changes. Seek urgent care for a sudden change in hearing.
Which professional can help?
An audiologist can assess hearing and recommend rehabilitation. An otolaryngologist (ENT) can evaluate medical or surgical causes.
Find a hearing-care professionalThis guide is educational and is not a diagnosis. A qualified clinician can help you understand symptoms in the context of your personal health history.