Hearing loss is due to an issue in one or more parts of the ear or auditory system. Today, the hearing impaired do not need to resign themselves to a life of not hearing sounds – advancements in hearing aids continue to be made, and the latest models are customizable and discreet.
Hearing loss is prevalent, affecting more than 30 million Americans who are over the age of 12. Hearing loss can affect people of all ages, including infants and young children.
Let’s talk about some fascinating facts about hearing loss that may surprise you:
Many People Are Born with Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is commonly associated with advanced age, but you can indeed be born with it. This condition is called congenital hearing loss, and it tends to be caused by an infection or from being born prematurely.
Hearing loss actually affects two to three out of every 1,000 newborn babies. It is not usually genetic, as over 90% of newborns with hearing loss are born to parents who have no hearing problems.
Ear Problems Can Affect Balance
Canals in your inner ear, which are shaped like tiny loops, have microscopic hair-shaped sensors that detect the movement of your head via how the fluid in the inner ear is moving (in relation to gravity). Therefore, any issues with these canals can affect your balance.
Noise Is a Common Cause of Hearing Loss
Everyday or frequent exposure to loud sounds, such as a tractor, lawnmower, or motorcycle, can contribute to hearing loss. Sounds above 70 dB (decibels) can be detrimental to your hearing – for perspective, a typical vacuum cleaner creates about 75 dB of noise.
It Can Be a Sign of an Underlying Medical Condition
Hearing loss can be an indicator of diabetes or heart disease. Low-frequency hearing loss (i.e., not being able to hear deeper voices and low-pitch sounds well) is linked to heart disease. Diabetes, which often damages the nerves and blood vessels, can lead to hearing loss if it affects the inner ear.
Most People with Hearing Loss Wait Years Before Seeking Professional Help
People who experience changes in their hearing tend to wait an average of seven years before seeing a doctor or other professional about the issue. However, if the issue is left unaddressed, the hearing loss will progress and cannot be reversed.
Hearing Aids Aren’t Unfashionable Anymore
The way hearing aids are designed nowadays, people no longer associate them with old age. They fully accommodate the desire to be discreet while being customizable to your individual hearing.
Hearing Loss Treatment in Georgetown, TX
Hearing loss, even complete deafness, can now be addressed with technological hearing devices. Here at Georgetown ENT, we can help improve your hearing so you can listen to the music of life.
If you have any questions or would like to have an audiology evaluation, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (512) 869-0604 or by filling out our online request form now. We look forward to helping you enjoy the sounds of the world!
