Understanding hearing lossHearing loss is one of the most common health issues in the world. Nearly one in five Americans age 12 and older experience hearing loss severe enough to interfere with daily communication. (1)Common causesA longer-living population contributes to the high volume of cases. That’s because Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, is the second most common cause of hearing loss (after noise-induced).Other causes include:
- Infections
- Injuries to the head or ear
- Birth defects or genetics
- Ototoxic reaction to drugs or cancer treatment (i.e. antibiotics, chemotherapy, radiation)
Most common typePresbycusis is typically attributed to sensorineural hearing loss, the most common type of hearing loss. Usually irreversible, sensorineural hearing loss occurs when the tiny hair cells that detect sound in the ear are injured, diseased or die (due naturally, for instance, to age). The good news? Hearing aids are proven to help treat sensorineural hearing loss.Waiting is not worth itMany people put off getting help for their hearing loss because they think it’s insignificant — something they can deal with by simply turning the TV louder or asking friends to repeat themselves. But research has linked untreated hearing loss to significant issues such as (2):
- Irritability, negativism and anger
- Fatigue, tension, stress and depression
- Avoidance or withdrawal from social situations
- Social rejection and loneliness
- Reduced alertness and increased risk to personal safety
- Impaired memory and ability to learn new tasks
- Reduced job performance and earning power
- Diminished psychological and overall health
Help is just a click awayThe best way to treat your hearing loss or help someone suffering from hearing loss is to take the first step and make an appointment for a hearing examination. At South Suburban Hearing we offer complimentary examinations and consultations. Request an appointment by entering your information on our Contact Us page and we will be in touch to schedule an appointment within one business day.1abcnews.com2betterhearing.org