Hearing loss affects more than seniors. Hearing loss symptoms related to noise impacts one out of every four persons in the United States between the ages of 20 and 69. Could you be one of them? Let’s look at the signs of hearing loss and how you can improve your hearing.
What Are the Signs of Hearing Loss?
There are a number of symptoms which may tell you and your healthcare provider that you have hearing loss. Strictly speaking, hearing loss is a sensory problem. It differs from person to person. When hearing loss starts and how bad it is are highly individual factors.
However, for many people, the symptoms of hearing loss are similar. They can include the following:
- Tinnitus, or a constant ringing, buzzing or roaring sound in one or both ears (no one else hears this sound–that is, the sound is created inside the body)
- Limited ability to hear conversation in a noisy place, such as a party or restaurant
- Difficulty understanding certain letter sounds, such as “f” and “s”
- Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds or the voices of women or children
- Asking people to repeat what they have said and/or to speak more distinctly, loudly and at a slower pace
- Listening to the TV, earbuds, phone or radio at higher and higher volumes
What Are the Causes of Hearing Loss?
About half of people over the age of 75 experience problems hearing and interpreting sounds and speech. This is called age-related hearing loss.
However, factors other than age may cause hearing loss in younger people–even in children. These factors are:
- Congenital malformations within the ear itself
- Ear wax (cerumen) build-up which blocks the ear canal
- Nerve damage caused by diabetes, exposure to toxins and more
- Diseases, such as repeated middle ear infections (otitis media) or shingles
- Smoking which deprives the body of oxygen and limits blood circulation
- Loud noise from construction jobs, explosions, car exhaust, loud music at concerts and overuse of headphones and earbuds
- Overuse of some over the counter medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen
What Can You Do about Hearing Loss?
If you think you have hearing loss, get evaluated by an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) and an audiologist. Audiologists are health care professionals who perform tests to determine the type of hearing loss you have and how bad it is.
Depending on the cause and severity of your hearing loss, treatments may include the following.
Hearing Aids
These are small electronic devices which amplify sounds. There are many different types of hearing aids. So, work with an audiologist to find the one best suited for your specific hearing loss and personal preferences.
Medications
Some types of hearing loss, such as those caused by infections or autoimmune disorders, may be treated with medications.
Communication Strategies and Speech Reading
People with hearing loss can improve how well they communicate by observing facial expressions and other visual cues. Your audiologist may recommend speech therapy to improve your ability to understand and communicate effectively.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may correct or improve certain kinds of hearing loss. The doctor may repair or replace damaged bones within the ear. Another option may be a cochlear implant–a device which bypasses damaged parts of the ear to stimulate the auditory nerve.
Each Treatment Plan is Unique
As with so many health issues, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for hearing loss. Everyone’s experience is unique. Treatment options vary based on specific health and communication needs.
In addition to these treatment options, lifestyle changes can help manage hearing loss. Examples avoiding loud noises, using ear protection in noisy environments and taking breaks from loud noise exposure.
Work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the best ways to deal with your hearing loss. Regular check-ups with your ear, nose and throat doctor and your audiologist will ensure that you receive support for your hearing loss.
Taking Care of Hearing Loss Symptoms in Austin, TX
Understand why your hearing is changing. Call Georgetown ENT for a complete medical and hearing evaluation with Dr. Scott William Franklin and our audiologist, Abeda Mueed, MA. When you understand your hearing problem, you can do something to manage it.
To schedule an appointment, call (512) 869-0604. You also may request your visit online here. We want to help you have better, healthier hearing. Call soon!
