One question we often hear is, “What kind of hearing loss do I have?” This is an important question to ask. Knowing the type of hearing loss is important to find the best treatment for your ears.
No two hearing losses are the same so the treatment can be different for everyone.
Three Types of Hearing Loss
Before we proceed, you need to know about the three main types of hearing loss. Each type affects your ears differently, so the treatments can also be different.
Conductive Hearing Loss
If you have conductive hearing loss, there is a problem in your outer or middle ear. This problem blocks sound waves from reaching your inner ear. Common causes include ear infections, earwax buildup, blockages, or unusual ear anatomy.
The good news is that conductive hearing loss is usually temporary and can often be treated with medicine. For example, if an ear infection is causing your hearing loss, antibiotics can help clear up the infection and restore your hearing. If earwax is the problem, a professional can remove it, and your hearing should improve.
Sometimes, surgery is needed to fix conductive hearing loss. This might happen if there are abnormalities in the ear structure, like issues with the ear bones. These surgeries can correct the problems and improve hearing.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This is the most common type of hearing loss. It occurs with damage to the auditory nerve or the inner ear. Common causes of this damage include aging, loud noise exposure, genetics, and certain medications.
Sensorineural hearing loss is permanent. It cannot be cured with medicine or surgery. But hearing aids can help. They make sounds louder and improve communication. If hearing aids do not work well, cochlear implants might be an option.
Cochlear implants are small devices that are surgically placed in the ear. They can provide a sense of sound to a person who is profoundly deaf or severely hard of hearing. This option can be life-changing for those who do not benefit from hearing aids.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. For example, if you have a history of ear infections and age-related hearing loss, you might have mixed hearing loss.
Treatment for mixed hearing loss can include hearing aids, medicine, or surgery. It depends on the parts of your ear that are affected. An audiologist will assess your specific situation and recommend the best course of action.
Why Knowing the Type of Hearing Loss is Important
Understanding your type of hearing loss is key to finding the best treatment. It helps doctors decide on the right care for you. Knowing your type of hearing loss also helps you understand what to expect in the future.
When you know your type of hearing loss, you can talk to your audiologist or ENT doctor more clearly. This ensures you get the best care and treatment for your unique needs. It also allows you to ask the right questions and make informed decisions about your health.
Understanding Your Hearing Loss Symptoms
Besides knowing the type of hearing loss, it’s also important to know the symptoms. Symptoms can affect your daily life. Common signs of hearing loss include:
- Asking people to repeat themselves often.
- Finding it hard to understand speech.
- Turning up the TV or radio volume higher than usual.
- Avoiding social situations because of difficulty hearing.
Untreated hearing loss can lead to other problems like cognitive decline, social isolation, depression, and anxiety. If you notice any signs of hearing loss, seek help early to prevent these issues from affecting your health.
Hearing loss can also affect relationships. When communication is difficult, misunderstandings and frustration can arise. Addressing hearing loss is important to maintaining healthy and happy relationships with family and friends.
How to Protect Your Hearing
Preventing hearing loss is just as important as treating it. Here are some tips to protect your hearing:
- Avoid Loud Noises: Try to stay away from loud noises or reduce your exposure time. Use ear protection like earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments.
- Turn Down the Volume: Keep the volume low when using headphones or listening to music.
- Take Breaks: Give your ears a rest by taking breaks from loud environments.
- Regular Check-ups: Get your hearing checked regularly, especially if you are exposed to loud noises often.
Audiologists in Littleton, CO
If you are looking for audiologists and hearing aids in Littleton, CO, contact Columbine Hearing Care today! They offer a range of services to help you with your hearing needs. From hearing tests to fitting hearing aids, they provide comprehensive care to ensure you receive the best treatment possible.
Taking care of your hearing is essential for your overall health and well-being. Don’t wait until your hearing loss affects your quality of life. Reach out to a professional and take the first step towards better hearing today!