Being able to hear is a very important factor in many people’s quality of life. It plays an important role in communication. Hearing is also beneficial in identifying emergencies or even for enjoying many types of entertainment. Unfortunately, nearly 15% of all Americans face some type of hearing loss that can negatively impact their lives.
What is Hearing Loss?
In basic terms, hearing loss is either a partial or complete inability to hear. Some people are born with hearing loss and some develop hearing loss over time. Hearing loss can be due to problems with the actual ear, the nerves connecting the ear, or even the part of the brain that controls hearing. Fortunately, Hearing Health Solutions offers solutions for many types of hearing loss.
Individuals need to receive comprehensive hearing tests regularly, especially as they age. Hearing loss can have serious effects on a person’s overall well-being and ability to interact with loved ones. Hearing loss has even been associated with cognitive decline and dementia in older adults.
Hearing loss must be treated immediately and as aggressively as possible to prevent difficulties for those affected. However, preventing hearing loss is the best method of treating the issue. Understanding the possible causes of hearing loss can minimize some of its effects.
Noise
One of the biggest risk factors for hearing loss is noise. Prolonged exposure to loud noises can cause damage to a person’s hearing. Construction work, industrial careers, or even loud music can have severe effects on a person’s ability to hear. It is often suggested to wear earplugs when in an environment that is very noisy and avoid playing music loud, especially when wearing headphones.
Cardiovascular Disease
Another more recent discovery has shown that cardiovascular disease may be a risk factor for hearing loss. With all the problems associated with cardiovascular disease, this is just one more reason for individuals to get treatment and work hard to change their lifestyles to prevent this disease. Regular screenings, a healthy diet, and exercise may be a great way to prevent this disease and its associated complications.
Aging
Aging is also a risk factor for hearing loss. Some hearing loss occurs naturally as a person ages. However, the severity of that hearing loss is often due to noise exposure, health conditions, medications, and genetic factors. Although it is impossible to prevent aging, avoiding various risk factors in one’s youth can minimize the significance of hearing loss.
Head Trauma
Any type of head trauma could play a major role in hearing loss. Whether the head trauma damaged the physical components of the ear or inner ear or damage to the brain occurred, a sudden blow to the head could create issues of partial to complete hearing loss. Sometimes, these issues do not present themselves until after the injury.
Tumors can also be a cause of hearing loss. Similar to head trauma, tumors can grow, damage, or even press on areas that can reduce a person’s ability to hear. With either of these issues, individuals need to get the proper care and treatments to help minimize the damage.
Illnesses
There are a variety of illnesses that can impact a person’s ability to hear. Some illnesses that have a direct link to hearing loss include Meniere’s disease, infections, and otosclerosis. Some medications also cause hearing loss. Some antibiotics, diuretics, NSAIDs, and chemotherapy drugs have been known to cause hearing loss. It is best to discuss these things with a doctor to help minimize complications.
There are a variety of other issues that may impact hearing. Although it is impossible to prevent every issue, individuals can speak with their doctors if they are having or suspect any type of hearing loss. Early detection is key to preventing serious issues later in life.
