Understanding Hearing Hub
Learn about how hearing works, types of hearing loss, causes, diagnosis, and more. Evidence-based information to help you understand your hearing health.
Sudden Hearing Loss is an Emergency
If you lose hearing in one or both ears suddenly, seek immediate medical care. See Emergency Guide.
Welcome to Understanding Hearing Loss
Watch this short introduction to learn how this hub can help you understand your hearing health.
Types & Causes
Types of Hearing Loss
Conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss: causes, characteristics, treatment options, and prognosis.
PresbycusisAge-Related Hearing Loss
Presbycusis explained: natural aging process, prevention strategies, when it typically starts, and treatment options.
PreventionNoise-Induced Hearing Loss
How loud noises damage hearing, safe volume levels, protection strategies, and reversibility of damage.
EmergencySudden Hearing Loss
Medical emergency requiring immediate care: causes, symptoms, treatment window, and recovery prognosis.
Diagnosis & Testing
Reading Your Audiogram
Decode your hearing test results: understanding frequency, decibels, thresholds, and what your chart means.
Medication SafetyOtotoxicity Monitoring Basics
A guide for people taking medications that can affect hearing, helping you understand why, when, and how to monitor.
Science & Research
What an Audiogram Measures (and What It Misses)
The standard audiogram shows the quietest sounds you can hear. Learn what your hearing test reveals—and what it might miss—about real-world hearing.
ScienceTinnitus Science: Why the Brain Creates Sound
A patient-friendly guide to the brain science of tinnitus—why ringing happens, why tests can look normal, what helps, and when to get checked.
ScienceWhy Background Noise Is So Hard
Why conversation in restaurants and meetings feels exhausting—even with a normal hearing test. Learn how listening effort works and what tools can help.
ScienceSound Sensitivity (Hyperacusis)
A patient-friendly guide to hyperacusis—what it feels like, why hearing tests can be normal, common causes, and how to protect your ears safely.
Browse All Articles
Explore our complete library of articles about understanding hearing loss, including advanced topics, research updates, and specialized information.
View All ArticlesWant Personalized Guidance?
Our Care Navigator helps you understand your specific type of hearing loss and find the right resources for your situation.