Hearing loss is a common condition, affecting almost 5% (430 Million) of the population worldwide. It can have a profound impact on an individual's quality of life, affecting communication, social interactions, and even mental well-being.
Hearing loss can occur due to various factors, including:
Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is one of the most common types of hearing loss. It typically occurs as a result of natural aging processes and affects high-frequency sounds first. That is why some elderly people have difficulty listening to others.
Exposure to loud noise: Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as machinery, concerts, or firearms, can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss. This type of hearing loss, known as noise-induced hearing loss, can be temporary or permanent depending on the intensity and duration of exposure.
Genetics: Some individuals may inherit genetic mutations that make them more susceptible to hearing loss. These genetic factors can contribute to both congenital hearing loss, present at birth, and progressive hearing loss that develops later in life.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as otosclerosis, Ménière's disease, viral infections and autoimmune disorders, can also lead to hearing loss. These conditions may affect the structures of the inner ear or the auditory nerve, impairing sound transmission to the brain.
Degree of hearing loss | Hearing loss range (dB HL) |
Normal | –10 to 15 |
Slight | 16 to 25 |
Mild | 26 to 40 |
Moderate | 41 to 55 |
Moderately severe | 56 to 70 |
Severe | 71 to 90 |
Profound | 91+ |
Hearing loss can be categorized into three main types:
Conductive hearing loss: This type of hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the outer or middle ear, preventing sound from being conducted effectively to the inner ear. Common causes include ear infections, fluid buildup, earwax buildup, or abnormalities in the ear canal or middle ear bones.
Sensorineural hearing loss: Sensorineural hearing loss results from damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. It is often permanent and can affect the ability to hear both low and high-frequency sounds.
Mixed hearing loss: Mixed hearing loss involves a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It may occur when someone experiences both inner ear damage and problems with sound transmission in the outer or middle ear.
The treatment for hearing loss depends on its type, severity, and underlying cause. Some common treatment options include:
Hearing aids: Hearing aids are electronic devices worn in or behind the ear that amplify sound and improve hearing for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. They come in various styles and technology levels to suit different degrees of hearing loss and lifestyle preferences.
Cochlear implants: Cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices that bypass damaged hair cells in the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. They are typically recommended for individuals with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss who do not benefit from hearing aids.
Surgery: In cases of conductive hearing loss caused by structural abnormalities in the outer or middle ear, surgical interventions may be recommended to restore hearing function.
Assistive listening devices: Use of FM systems, loop systems, and captioned telephones, can help improve communication in various listening environments by reducing background noise and enhancing speech clarity.
Communication strategies and therapy: Speech-language pathologists can provide valuable support and training in communication strategies, lip reading, and auditory training to help individuals with hearing loss improve their communication skills and adapt to their hearing loss.
Although, Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact an individual's daily life, taking proactive measures to reduce exposure to loud noises will help to counter age-related hearing loss. With the widespread use of headphones and earphones, youngsters especially need to be careful to listen to music or podcasts at reasonable decibels and not at the highest volume possible.
For individuals affected by some degree of hearing loss, timely interventions can help improve their quality of life and engage fully in the beautiful sounds of the world around them.
References:
Blazer, D.G. (2016) Hearing loss: Extent, impact, and research needs, Hearing Health Care for Adults: Priorities for Improving Access and Affordability. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK385309/
Deafness and hearing loss, World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/health-topics/hearing-loss#tab=tab_1
Degree of hearing loss, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Available at: https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/degree-of-hearing-loss/
-Written by Sohni Tagore
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