Is hearing loss genetic?

Found in every single cell of the human body, genes are the most basic unit of heredity information passed down from parent to child. They form specific patterns to make up our DNA and instruct the body on how to grow and develop. Through the sharing of genetic information, parents pass on characteristics like hair and eye color, as well as physiological attributes and conditions.

Hearing loss is among the conditions that can be passed down through genetic information. It can stem from a mutation or absence of genes that affect the way the ears are physically formed, or the way they function. If more than one person in a family has genetic hearing loss, it’s known as “familial,” as it runs in the family.

If hearing loss is in the parents’ genes, their children’s hearing can be evaluated at birth to determine if a hearing loss does exist. The specifics of an inherited genetic condition will dictate when, how, and the amount of hearing loss. Hearing loss when present at birth is known as congenital hearing loss. Fifty to 60% of congenital hearing loss stem from genetic causes. ²

However, just because the genes are in your family, doesn’t necessarily mean that every family member will experience hearing loss. As with physical traits, not every family member inherits every gene. Not everyone will inherit the gene mutation or medical condition that causes hearing loss, or its effects and incidence might vary by a person’s sex. Each case is unique, but by understanding the role genetics plays in our bodies and our medical histories, we can better prepare to manage our hearing in the future..

Types of hearing loss

To understand the conditions and diseases that cause hearing loss, it's important to first look at the types of hearing loss and how each affects sound processing in the body. Each type correlates to a specific region or condition and affects your hearing health in its own way. The type of hearing loss you have will also determine which treatment options are best for you. 

Medical conditions that cause hearing loss

Several genetic medical conditions are associated with hearing loss. Let’s explore some of these conditions and how they affect hearing: 

Treatment options for hereditary hearing loss

Despite the heritability of certain causes of hearing loss, there are ways to address and manage it. Treatments depend on the specifics of your condition, but there are ways to manage your hearing health that allow you to live life to the fullest. Here are a few first steps you can take: