CAUSES OF HEARING LOSS

Hearing loss is invisible and almost always painless. There are no physical warning signs, except for the occasional cases of ringing in the ears, called “tinnitus.” Most hearing losses develop over a period of 25 to 30 years, often getting gradually worse with age.

Between ages 45 and 60, there can be enough deterioration to interfere with communication.

Researchers believe that hearing loss in older adults is the result of two or more causes. These may include:

  • Exposure to loud noise
  • Family history
  • The natural aging process

In most of these cases, there is damage to the microscopic hair cells (cilia) in the inner ear – causing irreversible hearing loss. For the vast majority of individuals with nerve damage (also known as “sensorineural” hearing loss), the damaged hair cells will function again if vigorously stimulated with amplification.


Understanding Hearing Loss

Hearing is considered by many to be our most vital sense. It enables you to process everyday sounds so you can communicate clearly and interact safely in your daily environment. You depend on your hearing 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

As hearing diminishes, everyday sounds you once took for granted are no longer as clear. Maybe you cope by turning up the TV, asking others to repeat themselves, or pretending it’s not a problem.

But what happens when your inability to hear everyday sounds causes not only embarrassment, but also has more serious consequences? 

Consider the number of automobile accidents caused by a driver failing to hear warning signals. This puts both the hearing impaired driver and the public at risk. There are also the potential dangers of not hearing telephones, doorbells, security alarms, or smoke detectors. 

Untreated hearing loss in contemporary society can be a risky choice. Fortunately, with today’s advanced digital technology, the majority of hearing losses are treatable. So there’s no need to put off getting the help you deserve.