Hearing loss can begin at any age, even in childhood. While it's often associated with aging, it can also be caused by various factors, including:
- Genetics: Family history of hearing loss can increase the risk.
- Noise exposure: Loud environments or prolonged exposure to certain sounds can damage the inner ear.
- Medical conditions: Some illnesses, like diabetes, can affect hearing.
- Medications: Certain medications can have hearing loss as a side effect.
- Infections: Ear infections, especially in childhood, can lead to hearing loss.
While hearing loss can start at any age, it becomes more common as people get older. This is due to the natural wear and tear on the hearing system over time.
