Approximately 15% of U.S. adults report some trouble hearing. Discovering you have hearing loss can be troubling and even a little scary, whether it gradually developed over time, as with age-related hearing loss, or happened suddenly due to loud noise exposure.
While muffled voices or the quieter chirping of birds in Vernon Park can feel alarming, learning about the hearing loss treatment process can help you take on this new challenge with confidence.
1. Undergoing a Hearing Test and Understanding the Results
A hearing test is the first step in addressing hearing loss. The most common type of hearing test is called pure-tone testing, designed to determine the quietest sounds you can hear at various pitches. After the test, your results are recorded on an audiogram—a visual chart representing your hearing abilities.
Your audiologist will explain the findings on your audiogram and classify your hearing loss from mild to profound. Based on the results, they will discuss the appropriate treatment options.
2. Understanding Your Treatment Options
Treatment options depend on frequency loss type, cause and severity. First, your audiologist or hearing specialist will specify your loss as conductive, sensorineural or mixed.
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound cannot travel through the ear due to a blockage. Common causes include ear infections, blocked Eustachian tubes, a perforated eardrum, benign tumors and foreign objects in the ear. Medication to treat infections, surgeries or procedures to remove blockages are common conductive hearing loss treatments. If the cause is incurable, your audiologist may recommend hearing aids.
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is caused by damage to the inner ear. Common causes include illnesses, ototoxic drugs, genetics, aging (presbycusis), head trauma and exposure to loud noise. Although most causes of SNHL are incurable, hearing aids can greatly improve your quality of life.
Mixed hearing loss refers to causes in the outer or middle and inner ear. Any SNHL or conductive causes can lead to mixed hearing loss. For instance, you may experience blocked Eustachian tubes (conductive) along with age-related loss (sensorineural).
3. Starting Treatment
If medication, surgery or other methods cannot prevent your hearing loss, hearing aids are likely the best treatment option. If hearing aids are right for you, your audiologist will explain the different types of devices, such as behind-the-ear, in-the-ear and in-the-canal models. They will also discuss the available technology and accessory options like Bluetooth® connectivity, noise suppression and rechargeable batteries. Once you choose the right option, your audiologist will program your devices to suit your needs.
While the journey through treatment may feel long, the benefits of improved hearing and quality of life make it worthwhile. Contact Ear, Nose & Throat Consultants today to begin your treatment journey with one of our experienced specialists.