Loss of hearing

Loss of Hearing

Loss of hearing, also known as hearing impairment or hearing loss, is a partial or total inability to hear. It can affect one ear (unilateral) or both ears (bilateral) and can occur gradually over time or suddenly. Hearing loss is categorized by its cause, severity, and the part of the auditory system affected.

Causes

The causes of hearing loss are diverse and can be classified into two main categories: conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem conducting sound waves anywhere along the route through the outer ear, tympanic membrane (eardrum), or middle ear. Common causes include ear infections, otosclerosis, and blockages of the ear canal. On the other hand, sensorineural hearing loss results from damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or to the nerve pathways from the inner ear to the brain. Causes include aging, exposure to loud noise, Meniere's disease, and genetics.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hearing loss can vary depending on the cause and severity but may include difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, muffled hearing, and the need to increase the volume on electronic devices. Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, may also accompany hearing loss.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hearing loss involves a thorough medical history and a physical examination, followed by hearing tests. Audiometry is the most common test used to measure hearing ability and can help determine the type and degree of hearing loss.

Treatment

Treatment for hearing loss depends on its cause and severity. Options include removing wax blockage, surgical procedures, hearing aids, and cochlear implants for those with severe impairment. For sensorineural hearing loss, there is no cure, but treatments and assistive devices can help improve quality of life.

Prevention

Prevention of hearing loss involves protecting the ears from prolonged exposure to loud noise, avoiding insertion of objects into the ears, and managing health conditions that could contribute to hearing impairment.

See Also

• Audiology
• Deaf culture
• Hearing aid
• Cochlear implant

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