Kerala’s high humidity and prolonged monsoon seasons create a moist environment that increases the risk of fungal and bacterial ear infections. The state also has a large aging population, and age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) naturally increases with longevity. In addition, noise exposure from traffic, construction sites, workplaces, and prolonged earphone usage are the cause of common hearing loss. Another major factor is the lack of early hearing checkups.
Let’s see the common types of hearing loss.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss causes muffled hearing and a blocked or full sensation in the ear. Sounds may seem dull, and soft voices can be difficult to hear clearly.
In Kerala, this condition is commonly linked to excess earwax buildup due to humidity and frequent middle ear infections, especially during the monsoon season.
The good news is that it is usually treatable. Hearing loss treatment in Kerala includes professional ear cleaning, proper medication, or minor medical procedures.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss affects the inner ear or hearing nerve. Common symptoms include difficulty understanding speech and trouble hearing clearly in noisy environments.
The main causes are aging (presbycusis) and long-term exposure to loud noise from traffic, workplaces, or frequent earphone use.
While this type of hearing loss is usually permanent, it can be effectively managed with digital hearing aids and regular hearing assessments to monitor and optimize hearing support.
Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears without any external source. It can be constant or occasional and may become more noticeable in quiet environments.
In Kerala, tinnitus is commonly linked to stress, untreated hearing loss, and recurrent ear infections, which are frequent due to the humid climate.
Treatment options include hearing aids with tinnitus masking features, sound therapy, and counselling to help manage symptoms.
Ear Infections (Otitis Media & Otitis Externa)
Ear infections such as Otitis Media (middle ear infection) and Otitis Externa (outer ear infection) are common conditions that can affect both children and adults.
Symptoms include ear pain, fluid discharge, temporary hearing loss, itching, or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
In Kerala, infections are more common during the monsoon season, as high humidity and water entering the ears (from rain or swimming) create a favorable environment for bacteria and fungi.
Treatment typically involves prescribed medical ear drops, medication if required, and proper preventive ear care to avoid moisture buildup and recurring infections.
Earwax (Cerumen) Blockage
Earwax (cerumen) blockage occurs when excess wax accumulates in the ear canal and obstructs sound transmission.
Symptoms include sudden reduction in hearing, a feeling of ear fullness, mild discomfort, or even ringing in the ear.
In Kerala, high humidity can increase wax buildup, making blockages more common.
Treatment involves safe professional wax removal by a trained specialist. Avoid using cotton buds or sharp objects, as they can push the wax deeper and worsen the blockage.
Sudden Hearing Loss (Medical Emergency)
Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It usually occurs suddenly in one ear and may be accompanied by dizziness, ear pressure, or ringing.
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical care immediately. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly improve the chances of hearing recovery.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss occurs due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds that damage the inner ear. It often develops gradually and may first appear as difficulty hearing in noisy places or ringing in the ears.
Common sources include loud earphone usage, heavy traffic, construction sites, and industrial workplace noise. Continuous exposure without protection increases the risk significantly.
Treatment focuses on management through hearing aids if needed, along with strong awareness about hearing protection such as limiting volume, reducing exposure time, and using ear protection in noisy environments.
Hearing Problems in Senior Citizens
Common hearing problems in Kerala among senior citizens often develop gradually with age. Many elderly individuals may not realize their hearing has declined until communication becomes difficult.
Challenges include social isolation, reduced confidence, and difficulty understanding conversations, especially in group settings or noisy environments. This can affect emotional well-being and overall life.
Solutions involve easy-to-use digital hearing aids designed for comfort and clarity, along with regular follow-ups and counselling to ensure proper adjustment and continued hearing support.
Balance Issues Related to Inner Ear Problems
Inner ear problems can affect both hearing and balance, as the inner ear plays an important role in maintaining body stability and spatial orientation.
Symptoms include dizziness, vertigo (a spinning sensation), nausea, unsteadiness, or difficulty walking straight.
Treatment involves a detailed hearing and balance evaluation to identify the cause. Based on the findings, medical referral and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and restore balance effectively.
Hearing Problems in Children
Hearing problems in children can affect speech, learning, and overall development if not identified early. Regular monitoring is essential, especially during early childhood.
Warning signs include delayed speech, poor response to sounds or name calling, frequent asking for repetition, and difficulty following instructions.
Treatment involves early hearing tests and timely intervention. Early diagnosis and proper management can prevent learning difficulties and support healthy communication development.
How Hearing Problems Are Diagnosed?
Hearing problems are diagnosed through a combination of tests including Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) to measure hearing levels, Tympanometry to assess middle ear function, Speech Audiometry to evaluate speech understanding, and an otoscopic examination to visually inspect the ear canal and eardrum for any blockage or infection.
How Hearing Problems Are Treated at Aanchal Hearing Care?
Aanchal Hearing Care, the best hearing care clinic, manage hearing problems through hearing evaluation followed by customized hearing aid fitting based on individual needs. Patients are offered a trial before purchase to ensure comfort and clarity. The clinic also provides dedicated after-care and maintenance support, along with convenient home visit services across Kerala for accessible and continued hearing care.
FAQs
What is the most common hearing problem in Kerala?
The most common hearing problems in Kerala are ear infections and earwax blockage, largely due to high humidity and monsoon-related moisture. Age-related and noise-induced hearing loss are also increasingly common.
Can hearing loss be treated completely?
Some types, like conductive hearing loss caused by wax or infection, can often be treated completely. However, sensorineural hearing loss is usually permanent but can be effectively managed with hearing aids.
Is tinnitus common among Kerala residents?
Yes, tinnitus is fairly common and is often linked to stress, hearing loss, and recurrent ear infections. It is especially noticeable in quiet environments.
How often should adults test their hearing?
Adults should test their hearing at least once every 1–2 years, especially after the age of 40. Those exposed to loud noise or experiencing symptoms should get tested sooner.