Author – Melissa Schenley, AuD
On average, 27 million Americans over the age of 50 have hearing loss and approximately 15% of American adults over the age of 18 report some trouble hearing. With the growing number of Americans suffering from hearing loss, the myths about hearing aids and other treatments shouldn’t stop you from seeking help.
Hearing loss happens when sound waves traveling from the environment has trouble reaching the brain to be processed and interpreted as sound. Common causes of hearing loss include occluded ear wax, middle ear pathology such as ear infections, a ruptured eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation), or abnormal bone growths or tumors, or damage to the inner ear.
What are the early signs of hearing loss?
- trouble detecting high-pitched sounds, such as women and children voices
- distorted perception of speech
- difficulty in phone conversations or complex listening environments, such as restaurants or family gatherings
- ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus
- turning up the volume of the television/radio
- asking people to repeat themselves
What are additional risk factors associated with untreated hearing loss?
- Avoidance or withdrawal from social situations
- Reduced ability to detect alerts and risks, impacting personal safety
- Increased risk of developing early-onset dementia
- Negative changes in personality (more irritable or angry)
- Anxiety and depression
- Mental fatigue and stress on the brain
- Social isolation and loneliness
- Reduced professional performance which may impact earnings
- Diminished psychological and overall health
Who should I see if I think I have hearing loss?
- An otolaryngologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, throat, and neck.
- An audiologist is a doctor who specializes in identifying and diagnosing the type and degree of hearing loss.
If you or someone you know has similar symptoms or believe you may be suffering from hearing loss, contact the experienced and supportive staff at Light E.N.T. in Boynton Beach, FL today to schedule an appointment.