TREATING HEARING LOSS

The first step to dealing with hearing loss is an exam by an audiologist. It is easy, painless, and will determine what kind of hearing loss you have so you can get the help you need. Depending on the cause of hearing loss, an audiologist can advise you on the most appropriate treatment, which may not necessarily include amplification. However, you won't improve your hearing if you don't contact us today.

Causes of Hearing Loss

Sensory/Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss usually happens when the inner ear (the sensory organ) is damaged. It can not always be determined whether the damage is truly sensory or neurological. Therefore the two terms were combined many years ago. Sensorineural hearing loss may be caused by noise exposure, drugs toxic to the ear, genetic conditions, head trauma, and other conditions. Treatment is most often performed with amplification / hearing aids.

Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs from a blockage in the outer ear or mechanical dysfunction of the ear that prevents normal transmission of sound to the inner ear. Conductive hearing loss is most often associated with medical problems of the ear. Common causes are ear infections, wax buildup, and problems with the bones (called ossicles) of the middle ear. Medical treatment is often able to restore hearing. Permanent conditions which can not be fully corrected through surgery may require a hearing aid.

Auditory Neuropathy
Auditory neuropathy is present when the sensory functions of the ear work normally but neurological functions are impaired. This condition is usually present from birth and may have a wide range of severity, from mild hearing loss or difficulty hearing in background noise to complete deafness. There is no clear treatment for auditory neuropathy, although some clinics have had success using cochlear implants.

Auditory Processing Disorder
Some people have normal hearing sensitivity, but experience difficulty hearing and understanding in certain situations. Most people are born with auditory processing disorder and may have difficult hearing in background noise, when multiple people are talking, when someone is speaking very fast or with a heavy accent. Auditory processing disorder can not always be treated. In children, certain speech therapy techniques can help to improve listening skills.

Hidden Hearing Loss
Certain types of hearing loss are called "hidden hearing loss" because the site of dysfunction is unknown. This is frequently caused by severe noise exposure, often a single event such as an explosion. People with hidden hearing loss have normal hearing sensitivity, but notice that they have difficulty understanding people, particularly when background noise is present.

Audiology Ear Care can diagnose your hearing loss and provide you with professional, no-pressure advice on how to improve your hearing.

If you or a loved one suspect any type of hearing loss, schedule an appointment today.