The Sound of Silence: Causes and Solutions for Hearing Loss
Approximately 1.6 billion people around the world suffer from hearing loss according to recent reports. That number is expected to soar to 2.5 billion by the year 2050. Hearing loss can stem from a range of causes and occur in varying severities. At the same time, different types and levels of hearing loss may require different solutions.
If you think you may be suffering from hearing loss, the first step in addressing it is to meet with an audiologist. Audiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing loss and related issues. They can also help prevent hearing loss or aid in keeping it from growing worse in some cases. They can help you find the best solution to your hearing loss based on your unique needs. In the meantime, read on to learn more about the different causes of hearing loss and how to address them.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss is one form of the condition. It occurs when something prevents sound from reaching the inner ear properly. For people who experience this type of hearing loss, sounds may seem muffled or farther away than they are. In some cases, conductive hearing loss is caused by deformities in the middle or outer ear. Other times, it’s the result of infections. It can also be caused by fluid in the ear or simple obstructions, like an object stuck in the ear or ear wax buildup. It may also be caused by a ruptured eardrum or a tumor in the ear.
Depending on the cause of conductive hearing loss, treating it may be as simple as removing buildup or an obstruction. In cases where it’s a congenital condition, surgery to repair the affected portion of the ear may be necessary. Surgical procedures to repair ruptured eardrums or remove tumors can also correct conductive hearing loss. For cases caused by infections, antibiotics can treat the condition. For those in which fluid buildup is the issue, inserting tubes to drain the fluid can restore hearing.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common form of the condition. It’s caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. It can be come from ongoing exposure to loud noises, certain genetic conditions, and head or ear injuries. Stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and some other medical conditions can lead to sensorineural hearing loss as well. Additionally, some medications can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance issues. This type of hearing loss is often occurs with age too.
Hearing aids and cochlear implants are typically used to resolve this type of hearing loss. Sometimes, medications like corticosteroids can help as well. They may reduce swelling in the ear caused by loud noises or some types of injuries. In certain instances, surgery may be needed to correct damage in the ear. These solutions can also be combined when needed depending on the specific reasons for a patient’s hearing loss.
Addressing Hearing Loss
Hearing loss comes from various causes, and the appropriate treatments for it depend on a patient’s unique situation. Some people suffer from both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, which can make treatment more complicated. If you’re experiencing hearing loss, start with a visit to an audiologist to determine its cause and extend of the problem. From there, the audiologist can develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your specific needs.
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