Hearing loss can be caused by damage to the inner ear (due to injury or aging) or more predictable external factors. Here's what you can do.
Steps
Step 1. Check if you have a wax plug
In some cases, hearing loss can be caused by excess earwax in the ear canal. Take a picture of the ear, or ask a friend to look with a flashlight. If you see a plug of earwax, do not do nothing. If you try to extract it yourself, you will make the situation worse.
- If the occlusion is not severe, try washing. (Only if your eardrum is undamaged). Use a dropper and put a few drops of oil, the one used for babies, a mineral oil or hydrogen peroxide in the ear to soften the earwax. After a couple of days, use a syringe (after pulling out the needle), to pour warm water into the ear. Stay in place for a few minutes, then turn your head to let the water (and earwax) drain out.
- If the cork is stubborn, call your doctor and make an appointment to remove it.
Step 2. Make sure you don't have an infection
If you experience severe pain in your ears, call your doctor right away to rule out an infection or a ruptured eardrum. If you don't act in time, you could suffer permanent hearing damage.
Step 3. Be aware that hearing loss due to an injury to the inner ear cannot be repaired naturally
You cannot train to regain functions damaged by sensorineural hearing loss. You can, however, take advantage of the most advanced medical techniques.
Step 4. Use a hearing aid or cochlear implant
Hearing loss is due to structural damage caused by aging, an injury or a disease, consult an ENT about the techniques available to restore your hearing.
Step 5. Take steps to avoid further deterioration
Although you cannot repair the damage suffered, you can follow the steps necessary to prevent it from worsening. Avoid exposing yourself to loud and prolonged noises. If noise is produced in your workplace (if you work in the construction industry or are employed at a concert venue), consider wearing earplugs or changing jobs. If you use headphones or earphones to listen to music, keep the volume low. Avoid exposure to loud noises and you will preserve the preservation of your hearing.
Advice
- If you have experienced severe hearing loss, speak at a lower volume than you think necessary. It is common to compensate for hearing loss with an increased tone of voice when you cannot hear your voice well; but if your interlocutors do not hear well, they will invite you to raise your voice themselves.
- Remember to turn down the volume on your iPod.
