Hearing loss is a common problem that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. There are many different types of hearing loss, and each has its causes and treatment options.
Below are five types of hearing loss to help you understand what causes them and what happens if you have it:
1. Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when a problem with the outer or middle ear prevents sound waves from being properly conducted to the inner ear. Causes of conductive hearing loss include earwax buildup, a perforated eardrum, middle ear infections, and otosclerosis, which is a condition that results in the abnormal growth of bone in the middle ear.
Treatment options for conductive hearing loss include medication, surgery, and hearing aids.
2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. This hearing loss is usually permanent and can be caused by exposure to loud noise, aging, head injuries, and certain medical conditions.
Treatment options for sensorineural hearing loss include hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive listening devices.
3. Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. This hearing loss can occur when damage to the outer and inner ear or the auditory nerve. Treatment options for mixed hearing loss are the same as for conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
4. Presbycusis Hearing Loss
Presbycusis hearing loss is a type of hearing loss that occurs as a person ages. It is the most common hearing loss, affecting one in three people over 65. The loss is gradual and usually occurs in both ears.
There are several causes of presbycusis hearing loss, including exposure to loud noise, aging, and certain medical conditions. Treatment options include hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive listening devices.
5. Acoustic Trauma
Acoustic trauma hearing loss is a permanent hearing impairment that results from exposure to a single, thunderous noise. This hearing loss can occur from exposure to several sources, including firearms, explosions, and loud machinery.
This damage can cause various symptoms, including hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and vertigo (a feeling of dizziness or spinning). The good news is that in most cases, patients will recover most of their hearing.
Acoustic trauma hearing loss is a preventable type of hearing loss, and it is vital to take precautions to protect your hearing when exposed to loud noises. Wearing earplugs or earmuffs can help reduce exposure to loud noise, and avoiding loud noise when possible can also help reduce your risk of developing this type of hearing loss.
Conclusion
If you think you have hearing loss, you must see a doctor or audiologist to get a hearing test. Hearing loss can significantly impact your life, making it challenging to communicate with others and enjoy the things you love. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help. Hearing aids can improve your hearing, and there are other options if hearing aids aren’t suitable for you.
If you or a loved one have hearing loss, don’t wait to get help. Hear More Associates offer free hearing test in Lexington. Call us and have your hearing tested today!
