We get busy most of the time; we tend to forget our own health. More often than not, we only realize the importance of taking care of ourselves if we are already lying on a hospital bed. This is also the same case when we do not take care of our sense of hearing.
One day, you still enjoy listening to your favorite music on maximum volume. The next thing you know, there is already a deafening silence surrounding your entire presence. Hearing loss can be a traumatic experience, but a hearing aid can somehow help restore your hearing ability. But if you have one yet it needs fixing; you can find a hearing aid repair store in Denver, CO.
Common reasons for hearing loss
Hearing loss is common, especially among the elderly. In fact, a report by the National Academy on Aging and Society revealed that around 40 percent out of the 20 million or so Americans aged 65 and above suffer from hearing loss. However, hearing loss can also affect anyone regardless of age; it’s just that this condition is more common in the older generation.
There are three major types of hearing loss: sensorineural, conductive, and mixed. First is the sensorineural hearing loss, which involves the inner part of the ear. This type of hearing loss refers to nerve damage that is responsible for transmitting sound to the brain’s hearing area. Sensorineural hearing loss is often caused by an infection, injuries, and constant exposure to noise among a few.
Conductive hearing loss, on the other hand, is similar to sensorineural hearing loss. It also involves damaged nerves that are supposed to transmit sound into the brain. However, conductive hearing loss affects only one ear, unlike sensorineural hearing loss that affects both. Among common causes include excessive ear wax, ear infections, and other conditions that affect the ear canal.
Lastly, mixed hearing is basically a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing losses. It happens when a person has both nerve-related hearing loss and ear infections that can further worsen the condition.
Among common symptoms that you are having problems or have high risks for having hearing problems include:
- Tinnitus (a constant ringing sound you hear even if you cover your ears)
- Complaints from people of loud volume when you listen to the radio or watching TV
- Difficulties in hearing, especially if there is a background sound
- A tendency to let others repeat what they say multiple times
- Constant exposure to loud sounds
- Aging
How to avoid or lessen the risk of hearing loss
Hearing loss can be devastating, but a hearing aid can help gain your lost sense of hearing. However, your hearing may not be the same as you had before. Here are some tips to avoid the risk of hearing loss as much as possible.
- Avoid using earphones for long periods of time. Any sounds exceeding 85dB are considered dangerous, especially when exposed for long.
- Stay away from loud sounds that may continue for many hours. If this is inevitable, make sure to wear earmuffs to protect your hearing.
- Consult a doctor specializing in hearing conditions such as an otolaryngologist (ear disorders) or an audiologist (hearing loss).
Hearing loss is a normal condition, especially among the elderly. However, you should take care of your sense of hearing while you are still young and able. That way, you can still be able to enjoy and appreciate different kinds of sounds around you.
