Demystifying Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Hearing loss can impact anyone – from newborns and children to adults and seniors. Hearing loss is often unnoticed in its early stages because it forms so gradually, making it easier for others to recognise before you. Seeking professional help is essential, as a hearing health professional can provide comprehensive assistance in the diagnosis, testing and treatment of hearing issues.

They possess the expertise to conduct thorough assessments, utilizing advanced tools and techniques to accurately evaluate the extent of any hearing impairment. With this valuable information, they can then recommend tailored solutions, which may include hearing aids or other appropriate interventions. By taking proactive steps to address hearing concerns, individuals can maintain their quality of life and ensure optimal communication and engagement in their daily activities.

Is Hearing Loss Common?

It is more common than you think, with more than one in 10 people throughout the United States with some degree of hearing loss. In fact, there was around 60,000 people out there who have hearing loss in just one ear and one in three adults over 65 have age-related hearing loss, with almost half of all adults 75 and older dealing with it. Around two in every 1,000 babies are born with some type of hearing loss as well.

Types of Hearing Loss

There are different types of hearing loss, each with their own unique characteristics. Sensorineural hearing loss happens when the inner ear or auditory nerve gets damaged, often due to things like getting older, being around loud noises a lot, or certain health conditions. Conductive hearing loss, on the other hand, comes from problems in the outer or middle ear, like when earwax builds up, or if there’s an infection or something wrong with the structure. Mixed hearing loss is a mix of both sensorineural and conductive, where there are problems in both the inner and outer/middle ear.

Symptoms of Hearing Loss

Those who are dealing with hearing loss often lose their hearing gradually and they may not notice if it’s happening. If you are noticing any of the symptoms below, you may be developing hearing loss.

• You have to ask people to repeat themselves.
• Following a conversation is specifically difficult.
• It feels like people are mumbling all the time.
• You can’t hear certain high pitches.
• You are telling the volume up on your devices all the time.
• You have a pressure or fluid feeling inside your ear.
• You are dealing with balance or dizziness problems.

Causes of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can result from various factors, and understanding its underlying causes is crucial for effective treatment. One common cause is prolonged exposure to loud noises, which can damage the delicate structures of the inner ear over time. Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is another prevalent factor, typically occurring as a natural part of the aging process.

Certain medical conditions, such as otosclerosis or Meniere’s disease, can also contribute to hearing impairment. Additionally, earwax blockage and ear infections, if left untreated, may lead to temporary or even permanent hearing loss. It’s important to be aware of these potential causes and seek professional help if experiencing any signs of hearing difficulty.

Hearing Loss Treatments

Common treatments for hearing loss encompass a range of approaches tailored to the specific underlying causes. One straightforward yet highly effective intervention involves the removal of excess earwax, which, when impacted, can obstruct sound waves from reaching the inner ear. Hearing aids are a widely utilised solution, amplifying sound for individuals with various types and degrees of hearing loss.

These devices come in various styles and offer advanced features like noise reduction and Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, for cases of conductive hearing loss caused by structural issues, surgical interventions may be considered to repair or reconstruct damaged components of the ear. These treatments, combined with professional guidance, play a crucial role in restoring and optimizing auditory function for individuals with hearing difficulties.

• In the ear (ITE): These custom-made hearing aids are designed to fit snugly within the outer ear, making them discreet and comfortable for the wearer.
• In the canal (ITC): Like ITE, ITC hearing aids are custom-made but are smaller and fit partially within the ear canal.
• Behind the ear (BTE): BTE hearing aids are designed to sit comfortably behind the ear, with a small tube or wire connecting to a custom earmold or dome within the ear canal.

Getting Professional Hearing Help

It’s vital that you get help for your hearing if you notice any kind of loss. The faster you can get some support, the better you will feel in the end. Speak to our specialists today and book your appointment for the best possible support at .