Hearing loss is a common occurrence that affects many individuals every year. The Mayo Clinic projects that “About one-third of people in the United States between the ages of 65 and 75 have some degree of hearing loss. For those older than 75, that number is approximately 1 in 2.”
While there are several ways to treat hearing loss, how can you be proactive in noticing hearing loss at its early stages? Here are a few signs of hearing loss that you may identify in yourself and in others:
- Muffling of speech and other sounds
- Difficulty understanding words, especially against background noise or in a crowd
- Trouble hearing consonants
- Frequently asking others to speak more slowly, clearly and loudly
- Needing to turn up the volume of the television or radio
- Withdrawal from conversations
- Avoidance of some social settings
If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with an audiologist as soon as possible.
If you want to take preventative measures to protect your ears from potential hearing loss, you must have an understanding of what commonly causes hearing loss:
- Inner Ear Damage
- While aging often plays a role in inner ear damage, loud noises also contribute to hearing loss and can cause damage to the hairs or nerve cells in the cochlea.
- Earwax Buildup
- Earwax buildup is a natural and uncontrollable bodily function. However, you can help prevent hearing loss by receiving earwax removal treatments. This can often restore some hearing as well.
- Ruptured Eardrum
- High pitched noises, changes in pressure, and putting foreign or pointy objects in your ear canal all create risk for eardrum ruptures. Foreign objects can lead to ear infections which may result in a ruptured eardrum as well.
While several causes for hearing loss such as aging, work environment, medications, and illnesses cannot be prevented. However, taking care of your ears and visiting an audiologist at the first sign of hearing loss can make a big difference in your quality of hearing and quality of life.
If you are or have been experiencing any signs or symptoms of hearing loss, call Elevate Audiology today at (864) 442-5555 and schedule an appointment! Our staff is equipped and prepared to help you with all of your symptoms and concerns.