Hearing & Deafness
Hearing loss that occurs when sounds are unable to pass into the inner ear is often temporary and treatable.
For example, earwax build-up can be removed by drops, a syringe or suction. Hearing loss caused by a bacterial infection can be treated with antibiotics. Surgery can be used to drain a fluid build-up, repair a perforated eardrum, or correct problems with the hearing bones.
However, hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear or to the nerves that transmit sound to brain is permanent.
For example, earwax build-up can be removed by drops, a syringe or suction. Hearing loss caused by a bacterial infection can be treated with antibiotics. Surgery can be used to drain a fluid build-up, repair a perforated eardrum, or correct problems with the hearing bones.
However, hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear or to the nerves that transmit sound to brain is permanent.