Demystifying Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

If you suspect that you have hearing loss then you should know that, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), there are three main types. Each type is caused by a different underlying factor. The three types include sensorineural hearing loss, mixed hearing loss and conductive hearing loss. If you want to learn more about each one then simply take a look below.

Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss happens when sound cannot travel from the outer ear to the eardrum. When this type of hearing loss occurs, you may find it difficult to hear muffled sounds or softer sounds. Not all forms of hearing loss are permanent, thanks to advancements in medical interventions that have enhanced treatment options. Interventions may involve hearing aids or couseling. You may have this type of hearing loss if you have swimmer’s ear or if you struggle with ear infections. A build-up of wax can also lead to this type of hearing loss, along with foreign objects that may be lodged in the ear.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

This happens when there is damage to the inner ear or the nerve pathways to the brain. This type of hearing loss is normally permanent. Sensorineural hearing loss makes loud sounds seem somewhat muffled or unclear. It can result from a birth defect, trauma to the head or even Meniere’s disease. Acoustic neuroma and infections such as meningitis can also lead to sensorineural hearing loss.

Mixed Hearing Loss

Mixed hearing loss can also occur. This happens when you have sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss at the same time.

The Symptoms of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss usually happens over time. To begin with, you may not notice any changes in your hearing. If you experience any of the symptoms below, you may want to talk with your audiologist. These include:

• Hearing loss that doesn’t get better.
• Severe hearing loss.
• Pain in the ear.
• Difficulty following conversations.
• Ringing in the ears.

Treatment for Hearing Loss

If you experience hearing loss due to earwax buildup, it might be possible to address it at home. However, consulting your audiologist before attempting this is advisable, as wax may not always be the primary cause of your hearing issues. Clearing out excess wax can help open up the ear canal, potentially improving your hearing. If wax buildup is a recurring problem, regular visits to your audiologist for professional removal may be necessary.

Hearing Aids

Another treatment for hearing loss would be for you to get a hearing aid. Hearing aids are great as they can help amplify the sound around you, so you can pick up on more frequencies. It’s important to know that when it comes to hearing aids, there are not one-size-fits-all solutions. Your hearing aid will be catered to you and the specific level of hearing loss that you have. These may include:

• In the ear (ITE)
• Behind the ear (BTE)
• In the canal (ITC)

How Severe is your Hearing Loss?

When you go to your audiologist for a hearing aid, they will work with you to understand the level of hearing loss you have. It may be that you struggle to pick up on low frequencies or that you struggle with high-pitched sounds. Either way, your hearing test will show how severe your hearing loss is, and your audiologist may recommend hearing aids tailored to your specific hearing loss.

Adjusting to Your Hearing Aid

When you get your hearing aid fitted, you may find that it’s a little strange at first. You may find that everything is louder and that your ears are sensitive to sound. This is because you have gone a long time not being able to pick up on frequencies and now your brain is having to learn how to pick up on them all over again. This is normal, and after the adjustment period, you will be able to enjoy your life. You may even find that you end up feeling less fatigued, from having social conversations.

Some hearing aids are invisible, so you can’t even see them. If this is something that concerns you then you don’t have to worry about your hearing aid being visible at all, so make sure that you talk with your audiologist today if you want to find something suitable for you. Get in touch with Vienna Hearing Center today. You can call us at (703) 260-1250 and when you do, one of our audiologists will talk you through the available options, while recommending the best course of action going forward.