If your hearing loss is severe and of a certain type, your doctor may suggest that you talk to a surgeon who specializes in ear, nose, and throat diseases, called an otolaryngologist, about a cochlear implant. A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that the surgeon places under the skin and behind the ear. [...]

Other devices also can help you hear in certain listening environments. TV listening systems help you listen to the television or the radio without being bothered by other noises around you. Some hearing aids can be plugged into TVs, stereos, microphones, and personal FM systems to help you hear better. Some telephones work with certain [...]

If earwax blockage is a problem for you, ear, nose, and throat doctors recommend using mild treatments such as mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, or commercial ear drops to soften earwax. If you suspect that you may have a hole in your eardrum, however, you should consult a doctor before using such products. Source: U.S. [...]

If you take medication, ask your doctor if your medicine is ototoxic, or damaging to the ear. Ask if other drugs can be used instead. If not, ask if the dose can be safely reduced. Sometimes it cannot. However your doctor will help you get the medicine you need while trying to reduce unwanted side [...]

If the hearing loss is conductive, such as earwax blockage, hearing can usually be restored. If the hearing loss is sensorineural, parts of the inner ear or auditory nerve are damaged. Hearing loss of this type is permanent. The effects of noise-induced hearing loss may be temporary or permanent, depending on the intensity and duration [...]

Washing your hands frequently can help prevent an ear infection called otitis media that can cause long-term hearing loss. Also, get a flu shot every year to stave off respiratory infections. If you still get an ear infection, see a doctor immediately before it becomes more serious.

Noise-induced hearing loss is 100 percent preventable. You can protect your hearing by paying attention to noises above 85 decibels in loudness, which can damage your ears. These include lawnmowers, snowblowers, motorcycles, firecrackers, and loud music. Lower the volume on portable stereos and televisions. When you are involved in a loud activity, wear earplugs or [...]

Another cause of hearing loss is the ear infection otitis media, which can lead to long-term hearing loss if it is not treated. A severe blow to the head also can cause hearing loss. Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

One of the most common causes of hearing loss is noise. Loud noise can permanently damage the inner ear. Loud noise also contributes to presbycusis and tinnitus, which is a ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in the ears. Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

Not all inherited forms of hearing loss take place at birth, however. Some forms can show up later in life. In otosclerosis, which is thought to be a hereditary disease, an abnormal growth of bone prevents structures within the ear from working properly. Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders