Understanding Hearing Loss

Over 40% of Americans have some degree of hearing loss, that’s 48 million people. Many people don’t treat their hearing loss and increase their risks of developing other health issues. Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation and depression. When you can’t hear well then you tend to lack the confidence to socially engage with other people. You may stay at home more or miss out on opportunities with friends or family. This often leads to feelings of depression and can even lead to dementia. When you aren’t active, both socially and mentally, your brain starts to decline in its cognitive abilities. Manage your hearing loss with hearing aids and continue to remain active and healthy. Don’t let hearing loss have negative effects on your life, come see us at Uthe Hearing Aid and Audiology Centers.

Types of Hearing Loss

There are three main types of hearing loss: sensorineural, conductive, and mixed. Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is a nerve related issue in the inner ear. This is the most common type of hearing loss, effecting the most people. Sensorineural hearing loss varies by degrees and may most often be effectively managed with hearing aids. Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the ear canal, eardrum, or middle ear. Conductive hearing loss can be medically treated or managed with hearing aids. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive. This often occurs when there is damage to the outer or middle ear as well as the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve.

The causes of sensorineural hearing loss include:

Autoimmune disease of the inner ear
Loud-noise exposure
Aging
Head trauma or injury
Inner ear malformation
Malignant tumors
Viruses or disease
Ototoxic medication, which can harm the ear
Neurologic conditions, such as multiple sclerosis

The causes of conductive hearing loss include:

Allergies
Benign tumors
Ear infections
Fluid in the middle ear
Impacted earwax
Otosclerosis
Perforated eardrum
Eustachian tube dysfunction
Malformation of the outer ear, ear canal, or middle ear structures

Regardless of the type of hearing loss you have or how your hearing loss developed, it is important to come see us at Uthe Hearing Aid and Audiology Centers. We will perform a full diagnostic hearing evaluation and determine if you may need a medical referral. The sooner you address your hearing loss the sooner you can get back to enjoying the sounds you love again.

Hearing Loss

We help you understand your hearing loss.

Understanding Hearing Loss

Types of Hearing Loss