Hearing loss is common and can affect people at any age.  About 16% of adults in the UK have a hearing loss of some kind.  There are different types of deafness.  Some are caused by problems with the cochlear or the nerve of hearing, while others are caused by middle ear fluid (glue ear).  Some people experience problems with the ear drum or the tiny hearing bones in the middle ear.  Hearing loss can interfere with a person’s ability to communicate with others.  Treatment depends on the underlying cause and can include surgery or needing to have hearing aid fitted.