Causes of Hearing Loss
There are many causes of hearing loss. It can be caused by exposure to loud noise, certain medications, infections, injuries, birth defects, and aging. Some causes of hearing loss are temporary and can be reversed, but others are permanent. Certain professions, such as musicians, factory workers, and farmers, are more at risk for noise-induced hearing loss.
In children, hearing loss can be caused by congenital abnormalities, infections such as meningitis or measles, and head injuries. In adults, causes of hearing loss include loud noise exposure, certain medications, and aging.
Symptoms of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can happen gradually or suddenly and can be mild, moderate, severe, or profound. It can happen to people of any age, but it is most common in older adults.
Symptoms of hearing loss can include:
- Difficulty understanding words, especially in noisy places
- Asking people to speak more slowly, loudly, or clearly
- Turning up the volume on the television or radio
- Trouble hearing on the telephone
- Withdrawing from conversations
- Feeling like other people are mumbling
- Difficulty understanding certain sounds, such as s, f, t, h, and z
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
If you have any of these symptoms, you should see an audiologist to get your hearing tested.
Types of Hearing Loss
There are two main types of hearing loss: conductive and sensorineural.
Conductive hearing loss happens when there is a problem with the ear canal, ear drum, or middle ear. This type of hearing loss is usually temporary and can be treated with surgery or medication.
Sensorineural hearing loss happens when there is damage to the inner ear, or the nerve that connects the ear to the brain. This type of hearing loss is usually permanent, but there are some treatments that can help.
Protect Your Hearing
You can protect your hearing by avoiding loud noise, wearing earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to loud noise, and getting regular hearing checkups. If you have hearing loss, many different types of hearing aids can help improve your hearing.
Call or Text!
See a Specialist If You Have Hearing Loss
If you have any concerns about your hearing, or if you think you may have hearing loss, please contact us at Hearing Aids of Texas. When you make an appointment to see the owner, George, you will be under the professional care of an experienced hearing aid specialist with over 40 years in the business. He can help you go beyond the cause of your hearing loss and develop a plan to improve your hearing and communication with a hearing aid made especially for you.