HEARING LOSS: CAUSES, TYPES, SYMPTOMS & EFFECTIVE TREATMENT IN DUBAI
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Hearing loss is a common yet often overlooked health concern that can significantly affect a person’s ability to communicate and connect with the world. It may develop gradually or occur suddenly and can vary from partial to complete hearing impairment. With advancements in diagnostic tools and hearing restoration techniques, early detection and treatment can help restore function and improve overall quality of life. Whether you're experiencing minor hearing difficulties or more severe loss, finding the right care from the best ENT doctor in Dubai is key.
WHAT IS HEARING LOSS?
Hearing loss refers to the reduced ability to hear sounds in one or both ears. It may result from damage to the outer, middle, or inner parts of the ear, or from issues in the auditory nerve pathways. While aging and long-term noise exposure are leading causes, hearing loss may also be triggered by earwax build-up, infections, or structural problems like a ruptured eardrum. Fortunately, with timely hearing loss treatment in Dubai, many patients can regain auditory function and prevent further complications.
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF HEARING LOSS
Hearing loss can be categorized based on which part of the hearing system is affected. Identifying the type helps ENT specialists tailor the most effective treatment.
1. Conductive Hearing Loss
Occurs when sound cannot travel efficiently through the outer or middle ear. Common causes include earwax obstruction, fluid buildup, perforated eardrum, or ear infections.
2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This type involves damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve. It is often irreversible and typically caused by age, noise exposure, or genetic conditions. Hearing aids and cochlear implants are common treatment options.
3. Mixed Hearing Loss
A combination of both conductive and sensorineural components. It may require a mix of medical, surgical, and technological solutions.
WHAT CAUSES HEARING LOSS?
There are various factors that can contribute to hearing loss. Some of the most common include:
- Excessive earwax blocking sound waves.
- Chronic ear infections or otitis media.
- Age-related hearing deterioration (presbycusis).
- Loud noise exposure over time.
- Tympanic membrane (eardrum) perforation.
- Genetic predisposition and family history.
- Injuries or trauma to the ear.
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure.
- Certain medications that can be ototoxic.
- Fluid buildup or structural abnormalities in the ear canal.
RECOGNIZING SYMPTOMS OF HEARING LOSS
Early symptoms can vary by age and the underlying cause. Prompt evaluation at a trusted ear doctor in Dubai can help address symptoms before they worsen.
In Infants and Babies:
- Lack of reaction to loud sounds.
- No response to their name by 6–8 months of age.
- Delay in speech development.
- Limited or no babbling.
In Older Children:
- Speech that is unclear or delayed.
- Difficulty following verbal instructions.
- Frequently saying “huh?” or asking for repetition.
- Tendency to increase TV volume excessively.
In Adults:
- Muffled or distorted hearing.
- Trouble understanding speech, especially in noisy places.
- Frequently asking others to speak louder or repeat themselves.
- Avoidance of social interaction due to communication difficulties.
- Persistent ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
- Needing to concentrate hard to understand speech, leading to fatigue.
STAGES OF HEARING LOSS: HOW IT PROGRESSES
Hearing loss can range from mild to profound. Understanding the severity helps in deciding appropriate interventions.
- Mild Hearing Loss (25–34 dB): Difficulty hearing soft sounds and background noises.
- Moderate (35–49 dB): Challenges in conversations without hearing aids.
- Moderately Severe (50–64 dB): Trouble hearing loud speech and most conversations.
- Severe (65–79 dB): Only very loud sounds can be heard; hearing aids necessary.
- Profound (80+ dB): May not hear even the loudest sounds; reliance on implants and non-verbal cues like lip reading or sign language.
HOW IS HEARING LOSS DIAGNOSED?
A comprehensive diagnosis begins with a consultation at the best ENT clinic in Dubai, followed by various tests based on symptoms:
1. Physical Examination
A detailed check for visible blockages (like wax), infections, or structural damage in the ear.
2. Audiometry (Hearing Test)
Measures the ability to hear different frequencies and volumes using headphones. Helps determine hearing thresholds for each ear.
3. Tympanometry
Evaluates eardrum movement and identifies problems such as fluid behind the eardrum or perforation.
4. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE)
Tests the cochlea’s function by measuring sound waves produced by hair cells in the inner ear.
5. Imaging Tests
CT or MRI scans are sometimes required to detect tumors, trauma, or bone abnormalities.
EFFECTIVE HEARING LOSS TREATMENT IN DUBAI
Hearing loss treatments depend on the type, cause, and severity. Dubai’s leading ENT specialists offer personalized care through both non-invasive and advanced surgical options.
1. Earwax Removal
Simple suctions or special tools are used to clean out blockages that interfere with sound transmission.
2. Medication
Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed for infections or swelling of ear structures.
3. Hearing Aids
Useful for sensorineural hearing loss. These devices amplify sounds and improve clarity, especially in conversations.
Recommended for those with profound hearing loss when hearing aids are no longer effective. They bypass damaged ear structures to stimulate the auditory nerve directly.
5. Surgery
Procedures like tympanoplasty (repairing a perforated eardrum) or ossiculoplasty (reconstructing middle ear bones) may be required for long-term hearing restoration.
6. Ear Tubes (Tympanostomy)
Used in children and adults to drain fluid and prevent chronic infections.
For lasting results, it’s essential to follow up regularly with a trusted ear doctor in Dubai to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE AN ENT SPECIALIST?
If you notice any of the following signs, consult the best ENT doctor in Dubai:
- Ongoing ear infections
- Persistent ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Gradual or sudden decrease in hearing
- Dizziness or balance issues
- History of loud noise exposure
Early intervention is crucial. Delaying treatment can lead to permanent damage or further complications.
WHY CHOOSE TARABICHI ENT FOR HEARING LOSS TREATMENT?
Tarabichi Healthcare is recognized as one of the best ENT clinics in Dubai, offering cutting-edge diagnostics and comprehensive care for all types of hearing loss. Our expert team, including some of Dubai’s leading ENT surgeons and audiologists, is committed to delivering personalized, evidence-based solutions in a supportive setting. From infant hearing assessments to advanced procedures like cochlear implants, we provide tailored treatment for patients of all ages.
Whether you're considering hearing aids, surgical treatment, or simply seeking a professional second opinion, you can rely on our trusted ear doctors in Dubai to support you every step of the way with compassion, precision, and long-term results.
CONSULT THE BEST ENT DOCTOR IN DUBAI
If you’re experiencing ongoing hearing problems such as muffled speech, constant ear ringing, or difficulty understanding others especially in noisy environments it’s time to consult the best ear doctor in Dubai. Early detection is key, whether the cause is earwax blockage, a perforated eardrum, or sensorineural damage. At Tarabichi Healthcare, our ENT experts offer world-class hearing loss treatment in Dubai using advanced tools and tailored care plans to help you hear clearly. For Patients in Abu Dhabi and Al ain we have the Tarabichi Mondy Cochlear Implant Center established for hearing loss cases and cochlear implant.
Our team of the Best ENT doctors in Dubai, at Tarabichi Healthcare is committed to delivering world-class care with precision and compassion.
Meet our dedicated specialists: Dr. Muaaz Tarabichi, Dr. Michael Timms, Dr. Mustafa Kapadia, Dr. Satish Jain, Dr. Nazik Elfadil and Dr. Jamal Kassouma.
We provide minimally invasive treatments tailored to your condition, with a strong focus on safety, accuracy, and long-term results.
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