Hearing loss refers to a decreased ability to hear sounds. It is a prevalent condition that affects millions worldwide. It can range from mild, where individuals may struggle to hear faint sounds, to profound, where they may not hear any sound at all.
Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, exposure to loud noise, infections, and certain medical conditions like otosclerosis or Meniere's disease. Additionally, injuries to the head or ear, as well as the use of ototoxic medications, can contribute to hearing loss.
Types of hearing loss can be broadly categorized into conductive, sensorineural, and mixed.