Have you been noticing that conversations sound muffled? Or maybe you’ve been turning up the TV volume a little more each week?
If so, you’re not alone. Hearing loss is one of the most common health issues among Malaysians, especially as we age. But here’s the good news — early action can help protect your hearing and prevent further damage.

Let’s explore what you should know if you’re experiencing hearing loss, how to care for your ears, and when to visit an ENT doctor for professional help.

🔍 Understanding Hearing Loss

Hearing loss happens when one or more parts of your ear aren’t working properly — from the outer ear all the way to the auditory nerve. It can affect one or both ears, and the severity can range from mild to profound.

Common Causes of Hearing Loss

• Earwax blockage – Hardened earwax can block sound waves from reaching your eardrum.
• Ear infections – Chronic middle ear infections can damage hearing over time.
• Noise exposure – Regular exposure to loud sounds (concerts, construction work, headphones) can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear.
• Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) – This gradual decline is natural but can be worsened by other factors.
• Sudden sensorineural hearing loss – A medical emergency that happens abruptly, often within hours.
• Ototoxic medications – Certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs or painkillers can affect hearing.
• Medical conditions – Diabetes, hypertension and thyroid disorders can reduce blood flow to the ear.

💡 What You Can Do to Prevent Hearing Loss from Worsening

Hearing loss can be managed — but it requires awareness and small daily habits. Here’s what ENT specialists often recommend:

1. Protect Your Ears from Loud Noise

• Use earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones when exposed to loud environments.
• If you enjoy concerts or clubbing, give your ears a break every 30–45 minutes.
• Follow the 60/60 rule when using earphones: maximum 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.

2. Don’t Clean Your Ears Too Aggressively

• Avoid using cotton buds, pins, or other objects — they can push wax deeper and injure the eardrum.
• If your ears feel blocked, visit an ENT clinic for professional ear cleaning.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

• Eat foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3, and vitamins (like leafy greens, fish, and nuts).
• Stay active — good blood circulation supports healthy inner ear function.
• Control blood pressure and diabetes — they both influence your hearing health.

4. Treat Infections Promptly

• Recurrent ear infections, especially in children, can lead to long-term hearing issues.
• See a doctor if you notice pain, discharge, or fever associated with ear discomfort.

5. Schedule Regular Hearing Tests

• Adults above 50 should get their hearing checked every 1–2 years.
• Early detection allows hearing aids or medical treatment to be introduced before significant loss occurs.

🚨 Red Flags That You Should See an ENT Doctor Immediately

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t delay — early treatment can make a huge difference:

• Sudden hearing loss in one or both ears (within 24–48 hours)
• Persistent ringing or buzzing (tinnitus)
• Ear pain, discharge or bleeding
• Dizziness, vertigo or balance issues
• A feeling of “blocked” ears that doesn’t go away after cleaning
• Difficulty understanding speech even in quiet places

These signs could indicate nerve-related hearing loss, infection, or even ear growths (like cholesteatoma or acoustic neuroma).
An ENT specialist can perform detailed hearing tests (audiometry, tympanometry, or otoacoustic emissions) to find out what’s really happening and recommend the best treatment.

🏥 Treatment Options for Hearing Loss

Depending on the cause, treatment may include:

• Earwax removal (manual or suction)
• Medication or ear drops for infection or inflammation
• Hearing aids – small, discreet devices that greatly improve hearing clarity
• Surgery for structural problems (e.g., eardrum repair or bone reconstruction)
• Cochlear implants for severe or total hearing loss
• Counselling & rehabilitation to help you adapt to hearing changes

Remember — the earlier hearing loss is detected, the better the outcome.

❤️ Final Thoughts: Take Action Early

Hearing connects you to people, music, laughter, and life. Don’t wait until you’ve lost more of it to act.
If you’ve been noticing changes in your hearing or any of the red flags mentioned above, book a consultation with your ENT doctor for a full assessment.

At The ENT Doctor , we’re dedicated to helping you protect, preserve, and restore your hearing health.