Information Line (Freephone)
Telephone 0808 808 0123
Textphone 0808 808 9000
informationline@rnid.org.uk
Telephone 0808 808 0123
Textphone 0808 808 9000
informationline@rnid.org.uk
RNID: For deaf and hard of hearing people.
What causes deafness?
Almost nine million people in the UK are deaf or hard of hearing. There are a number of different reasons why someone might be deaf or lose their hearing. We explore some of these causes in this section.
Conductive and sensorineural hearing loss
There are two main types of hearing loss – sensorineural and conductive. It is possible to have both types present at the same time – something called a ‘mixed’ hearing loss.
Age
More than 50% of people over the age of 60 have a hearing loss. Find out the common signs of age-related hearing loss, and where to find more information.
Noise
Prolonged and repeated exposure to loud noise at work and play can damage your hearing. Read our tips to protect your hearing.
Other ear problems
Sound not getting through to the inner ear can be caused by wax, eardrum damage and inflammation. Find out more.
Genetics
About one in every thousand babies is born moderately to profoundly deaf. Genetic factors are thought to be the cause of at least half of these cases.