Hearing loss & deafness covers a wide range of hearing difficulties and a patient is often confused about the state of their condition. As a result many people buy inappropriate aids to meet their individual needs, especially if purchased without a professional assessment.
Generally hearing loss can be categorised into 4 types Mild, Moderate, Severe and Profound.
Mild hearing loss – Patients with Mild hearing loss have difficulty hearing sound between 20-39 decibels. This condition often leads to difficulty hearing a television & radio at normal levels as well as conducting conversations over distances. Ambient noise can also increase the effects of this hearing loss.
Moderate hearing loss – Patients with Moderate hearing loss have difficulty hearing sound between 40-69 decibels. Moderate hearing loss would result in an increased level of symptoms as displayed with mild hearing loss.
Severe hearing loss – Patients with Severe hearing loss have difficulty hearing sound between 70-89 decibels. Those suffering from severe hearing loss may only be able to communicate if the speaker is in close proximity with increased volume, without the interruption of ambient noise.
Profound hearing loss – Profound hearing loss / deafness means patients can not hear up to 90 decibels. This is the most severe form of hearing loss making speech inaudible with patients becoming reliant on visual communication.
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss refers to the partial or complete inability to hear sounds in one or both ears. It can range from mild, where some sounds are difficult to hear, to profound, where even the loudest sounds are barely perceptible.
Types of Hearing Loss
- Conductive Hearing Loss: This occurs when sound waves are not efficiently conducted through the outer ear, eardrum, or middle ear (ossicles). Common causes include ear infections, fluid in the middle ear, perforated eardrums, and otosclerosis (abnormal bone growth in the middle ear) Glued ear, Build-up of wax, Damage to the ossicles or perforated eardrums.
- Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Results from damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve pathways. It is often permanent and can be caused by aging (presbycusis), noise exposure, head trauma, and certain medications (ototoxic drugs).
- Mixed Hearing Loss: Involves both conductive and sensorineural components, indicating issues in both the outer/middle and inner ear.
Causes of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be attributed to various factors, including:
- Age: The natural aging process can lead to the gradual deterioration of hearing ability.
- Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as machinery, concerts, and headphones, can damage the hair cells in the cochlea.
- Genetics: Hereditary conditions can predispose individuals to hearing loss.
- Infections: Ear infections (otitis media), meningitis, and measles can damage the auditory system.
- Ototoxic Medications: Certain antibiotics, chemotherapy agents, and other drugs can harm the ear’s structures.
- Physical Trauma: Injuries to the head or ear can result in hearing impairment.
- Chronic Diseases: Conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune disorders can affect hearing.
Click Here For A New Way To Alliviate Loss Of Hearing
Symptoms of Hearing Loss
Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Increasing the volume on electronic devices
- Perceiving muffled sounds
- Tinnitus(ringing in the ears)
Diagnosing Hearing Loss
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Hearing Tests: Audiometric tests measure the faintest tones a person can hear at different frequencies and volumes.
- Physical Examination: Otoscopic examination checks for ear canal obstructions, infections, or abnormalities.
- Medical History: Understanding the patient’s history of noise exposure, medications, and other risk factors.
What can you do to Alliviate it.
While some types of hearing loss are irreversible, various treatments can improve hearing and communication:
- Hearing Aids: Amplify sounds to aid those with sensorineural hearing loss. Modern hearing aids are discreet and come with advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity.
- Cochlear Implants: Suitable for severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss, these devices bypass damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
- Medications and Surgery: Conductive hearing loss may be treated with antibiotics for infections or surgeries to correct structural issues.
- Assistive Listening Devices: Tools such as amplified telephones and FM systems can enhance sound quality in specific situations.
A new study showed that hearing loss happens when hair cells lose the connection to the brain cells that are responsible for extracting the meaning out of the sounds we hear. By addressing this root cause of hearing loss, SonoVive empowers and strengthens the link between hair cells and brain cells. The result,
20/20 hearing way into old age, a sharper mind and clear focus.
To Prevent it from ever happening:
- Protecting Ears from Loud Noises: Using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones in noisy environments.
- Regular Hearing Check-ups: Early detection can prevent further deterioration.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Managing chronic conditions and avoiding ototoxic drugs when possible.
Common Questions
- Can hearing loss be reversed?
- Conductive hearing loss can sometimes be reversed through medical or surgical treatment. Sensorineural hearing loss is generally permanent, but hearing aids and implants can significantly improve hearing ability.
- Is hearing loss a normal part of aging?
- Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, is common and typically begins in one’s 60s. However, it’s important to differentiate it from hearing loss caused by other factors.
- How do I know if I need a hearing aid?
- If you experience difficulty hearing conversations, frequently ask for repetitions, or find that you need to increase the volume on devices, it’s advisable to consult an audiologist for a hearing evaluation.
- Can children have hearing loss?
- Yes, children can have congenital hearing loss or acquire it due to infections, head injuries, or exposure to loud noises. Early detection and intervention are crucial for language development and educational progress.
- Is tinnitus related to hearing loss?
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, often accompanies hearing loss. It can result from exposure to loud noises, ear infections, and other auditory conditions.
Conclusion
Hearing loss, though a common issue, can significantly impact one’s life. Understanding its causes, types, and treatments can aid in managing and mitigating its effects. Regular hearing checks, protective measures, and prompt treatment are essential in preserving hearing health and enhancing communication and quality of life.