About 1.5 billion people globally experience some level of hearing loss, that is nearly 20% of the world’s population. Losing the ability to hear can be devastating.
What causes hearing loss? Are there different types? Is it genetic?
There are many causes of hearing loss. They include genetic factors, which are errors in the DNA, loud noises, aging, head trauma, and some medications. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune conditions are associated with increased risk of hearing loss.
Hearing loss can be broadly grouped into two categories: conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss implies that there is a problem with how the sound is conducted through the ear canal and the middle ear.
Sensorineural hearing loss indicates that there is a problem in the inner ear, the hearing nerve that connects the ear with the brain.
Is hearing loss reversible, or can it be prevented?
Hearing loss can sometimes be reversible. For example, conductive hearing loss, a condition in the middle ear. is often reversible. For conductive hearing loss, some options include medication, repairing a hole in the eardrum, replacing missing, broken or malfunctioning tiny bones in the middle ear with a prosthesis or performing eustachian tube surgery.
While sensorineural hearing loss is typically irreversible, some forms can be reversible, such as those caused by certain medications. For sensorineural hearing loss, the main treatment options include hearing aids and cochlear implants. Additionally, it is important to manage diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other chronic conditions to slow the progression of hearing loss.
Hearing loss can be prevented by protecting the ears from loud noise and loud music, eating a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, and controlling underlying health issues, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
What’s the difference between hearing aids and cochlear implants?
Hearing aids are devices that amplify sound and are designed to improve clarity and decrease background noise and require no surgery.
Cochlear implants are devices that require surgery to insert an electrode array directly into the cochlea, which is the hearing organ of the inner ear. Cochlear implants bypass missing or nonfunctional cells in the inner ear and directly stimulate the hearing nerve. They are effective for people with severe to profound hearing loss.
Here at Hearing & Tinnitus Management, we believe in life beyond the audiogram. Your experiences go beyond a chart. Your quality of life is our priority. It’s not just about decibels: it’s about your overall well-being. Let’s discover personalized solutions together. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Elena Maresca. You don’t have to “learn to live with it!”