Hearing Loss

Director at CHC

Dr. Hammerschlag is on the board of directors and an active provider to the nonprofit, Center for Hearing and Communication, which has been been providing hearing care since 1904.

New York Super Doctor

Treatment for temporary or reversible hearing loss usually depends on the cause of the hearing loss. Treatment for permanent hearing loss can utilize hearing devices, some of which are surgically implanted as well as those not implanted.

Although you and your family may view permanent hearing loss as part of aging, frequently there are other causes of hearing loss and the correct diagnosis of your hearing is essential for proper treatment. Hearing loss may contribute to loneliness, depression, and loss of independence. Treatment can make communication, social interaction, and work and daily activities easier and more enjoyable.

Treatment for Hearing Loss

Treatment for reversible hearing loss depends on its cause. For example, it is often treated successfully when hearing loss is caused by:

  • Ototoxic medicines (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) can often interfere with hearing. Stopping those medications can often improve temporary hearing loss.
  • Acoustic trauma or exposure to very loud noise can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss. A timely diagnosis and treatment may reverse this hearing loss.
  • An ear infection, such as a middle ear infection, which may be acute or chronic can cause hearing loss. Infections are often treatable and have excellent results lessening hearing loss.
  • If your head (head trauma, skull fracture) or ear is injured, treatment and healing can help improve hearing.
  • Otosclerosis, acoustic neuroma, or Meniere’s disease can adversely impact hearing and may require medicine or surgery.
  • Some medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders (for example, Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease, "AIED") can be associated with hearing loss and need prompt evaluation.
  • Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss is a medical emergency, which requires prompt diagnosis for successful treatment to restore hearing.
  • Tumors can cause hearing loss.
  • Earwax can be a cause of some hearing loss. Do not use cotton swabs or any sharp object in an attempt to clear earwax.

Some hearing loss is permanent hearing loss. It may results from a multitude of interacting causes, including noise-induced hearing loss or age-related hearing loss. There are many devices and treatments available, including:

  • Hearing care products that amplify sounds. They do not restore hearing, but they may help you function and communicate more easily. Dr. Hammerschlag’s office offers a variety of hearing care products; contact the office for an appointment for a hearing evaluation.
  • Other hearing devices – contact Dr. Hammerschlag to learn more about what the best treatment for your particular hearing condition may be.

Practice Announcement

Dr. Paul Hammerschlag has retired after a long and distinguished career. His friend and colleague, Dr. Darius Kohan, Associate Professor at NYU School of Medicine and Director of Otology/Neurotology at Lenox Hill Hospital and MEETH, will continue to manage his practice and provide continued care for his patients. Please contact his office at 1-212-472-1300 to schedule an appointment.


Please read Dr. Hammerschlags' full retirement and practice transfer announcement here.

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