How Do You Fix Temporary Hearing Loss?

Temporary hearing loss can be a distressing experience, but in many cases, it resolves with the right approach. Whether caused by ear infections, noise exposure, or a build-up of earwax, identifying the cause is the first step to restoring your hearing. Here, we’ll explore common causes of temporary hearing loss, effective treatments, and determine when you should consult a professional audiologist.

Common Causes of Temporary Hearing Loss

Temporary hearing loss can happen for various reasons, each requiring specific treatment. Below are the most common causes and how they are typically addressed.

1. Middle Ear Infections

Ear infections occur when bacteria-filled fluid accumulates behind the eardrum, often as a result of a cold or viral infection. While particularly common in children — affecting 80% of them by the age of three — adults can also experience middle ear infections. The build-up of fluid in the middle ear disrupts the movement of the eardrum and other key hearing structures, resulting in temporary hearing loss.

In some cases, the pressure from the fluid can rupture the eardrum, causing discharge and further discomfort. While this can sound alarming, ruptured eardrums often heal on their own once the infection clears.

• Treatment: Middle ear infections are commonly treated with antibiotics. If prescribed, it’s crucial to complete the full course, even if symptoms improve early, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated. Over-the-counter pain relief can also help manage discomfort during recovery.

2. Exposure to Loud Noise

Temporary hearing loss from exposure to loud sounds—often referred to as “concert deafness”—occurs when the delicate hair cells in the inner ear become temporarily damaged. This condition is frequently accompanied by tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears. While hearing usually recovers on its own, repeated exposure to loud noise can lead to permanent damage over time. To protect your hearing, the World Health Organisation advises limiting weekly exposure to personal listening devices to 40 hours at a maximum of 80 dB for adults and 75 dB for children. If you can hear someone else’s device, don’t hesitate to ask them to lower the volume—it’s a simple step toward preserving your hearing health.

• Treatment: Resting your ears is the best way to recover from noise-induced hearing loss. Avoid further exposure to loud environments, and if symptoms persist beyond 24–48 hours, seek medical advice. In the future, protect your ears with earplugs or earmuffs in noisy settings like concerts, sporting events, or while using loud machinery.

3. Earwax Blockage

Earwax is vital for keeping your ears clean and protecting them from debris. However, when it builds up excessively or becomes impacted, it can block the ear canal and lead to temporary hearing loss by preventing sound waves from reaching the eardrum effectively. A survey by RNID of over 1,400 adults who had experienced earwax build-up revealed that 73% of respondents reported hearing loss, while 37% also experienced tinnitus. The findings highlight the importance of addressing earwax build-up promptly to maintain optimal hearing health.

• Treatment: Professional earwax removal is the safest option. Audiologists use techniques like microsuction to clear the ear canal quickly and painlessly. Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into your ears, as this can push the wax deeper and cause further issues.

4. Swimmer’s Ear

Swimmer’s ear, also known as an outer ear infection, often occurs when water becomes trapped in the ear after swimming. This creates a damp environment where bacteria or fungi can thrive, causing inflammation and temporary hearing loss. Nearly 1 in 10 people will experience swimmer’s ear at some point in their lives. Common symptoms include pain, itchiness, and a sensation of fullness in the affected ear.

• Treatment: Swimmer’s ear is usually treated with antibiotic ear drops. To prevent recurrence, dry your ears thoroughly after swimming and consider wearing earplugs designed for swimmers. Avoid inserting foreign objects into the ear, as scratches can increase the risk of infection.

5. Medication Side Effects

Certain medications, including some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and even high doses of aspirin, can cause temporary hearing loss or tinnitus. This condition is known as ototoxicity. Hearing often improves once the medication is discontinued or adjusted.

• Treatment: If you notice changes in your hearing after starting a new medication, consult your doctor immediately. They may adjust your dosage or recommend an alternative treatment. Never stop taking a prescribed medication without medical guidance.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While temporary hearing loss often resolves with appropriate treatment, sudden or severe cases should not be ignored. If you experience sudden hearing loss without an obvious cause, such as noise exposure or infection, seek medical help immediately. Sudden hearing loss can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition, including viral infections or circulatory issues.

Prompt evaluation and treatment significantly improve the chances of full recovery. In some cases, you may need to see an ENT specialist or undergo advanced hearing tests to determine the cause.

How to Prevent Temporary Hearing Loss

Prevention is often the best strategy for avoiding temporary hearing loss. Here are some simple steps to protect your ears:

• Use ear protection: Wear earplugs or noise-cancelling earmuffs in loud environments.

• Keep ears dry: Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing to prevent infections.

• Avoid inserting objects: Don’t use cotton swabs or other items to clean your ear canals.

• Practice safe listening: Limit the volume and duration of headphone use.

• Seek regular ear care: Schedule routine hearing assessments to catch potential issues early.

By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of temporary hearing loss and protect your overall ear health.

What About Clogged Ears?

Clogged or muffled ears can sometimes feel like hearing loss, but the causes and treatments may differ. Issues such as sinus congestion, altitude changes, or minor ear infections can create a sensation of fullness without affecting your ability to hear clearly. If clogged ears persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.

Why Professional Care Is Essential

If you’re dealing with temporary hearing loss, consulting an experienced audiologist is often the best course of action. Audiologists can accurately diagnose the cause of your hearing loss and recommend safe, effective treatments. Our expert team offers services like earwax removal, hearing assessments, and personalised advice to help you restore your hearing and maintain long-term ear health.

Prioritise Your Hearing Health

Temporary hearing loss can range from mildly inconvenient to deeply concerning, depending on the cause. While many cases resolve with time and care, others require professional intervention. By understanding the causes, seeking appropriate treatment, and taking preventive steps, you can protect your hearing and avoid future issues.

If you’re experiencing temporary hearing loss or have concerns about your ear health, book a consultation with Tranquil Hearing Care now. Timely care can make all the difference in preserving your hearing and overall well-being.