Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Emma White
Hearing loss is a very common problem that can really impact a person’s life. About 15% of adults in America have some level of hearing trouble. This number goes up to 25% for people aged 65-74 years old and 50% for people over 75 years old. But, there are many things that can hurt hearing over time. Knowing these things early and taking action to protect hearing is so important. It allows someone to get help fast if hearing loss starts.
By better understanding the risk factors, individuals can make informed choices to safeguard hearing and seek effective solutions at the first signs of decline. Below are ten of the major risks people can be exposed to for hearing impairment and outlines potential hearing aid solutions to restore auditory function. Advanced knowledge on this issue empowers people to be proactive about ear health.
1. Aging – As we get older, hearing tends to gradually decline. Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is caused by changes in the inner ear and auditory nerve. Using hearing aids can help amplify sounds.
2. Loud noise – Exposure to loud noises, either sudden burst sounds or prolonged noise, can damage the delicate structures of the inner ear. Wearing earplugs or earmuffs when around loud noise will help prevent hearing loss.
3. Earwax blockage – Excessive earwax accumulation can obstruct the ear canal and cause conductive hearing loss. Seeing a doctor to have earwax properly removed will help restore hearing.
4. Ear infections – Inflammation and infection of the middle ear can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss if left untreated. Antibiotics and sometimes surgery may be needed for chronic ear infections.
5. Head trauma – Injuries to the head or ear can damage hearing mechanisms. Trauma such as skull fractures, concussions, or injuries from explosions can all impair hearing. The injuries can cause damage to the eardrum, middle ear bones, inner ear, or auditory nerve. Hearing loss from head trauma may be immediate or can sometimes develop gradually over time. Hearing aids or cochlear implants can help treat sensorineural hearing loss caused by trauma. However, these devices cannot repair damage to the middle or outer ear structures. Consulting an audiologist helps determine the exact type and severity of hearing loss for proper treatment.
6. Some medications – Certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs are toxic to the ears. Ototoxic medicines like high doses of aspirin can impair hearing over time. Limiting exposure reduces risk.
7. Genetics – Some genetic conditions lead to progressive hearing loss, such as Usher syndrome. Cochlear implants may help restore hearing for those with severe genetic hearing impairment.
8. Smoking – Smoking restricts blood flow to the structures of the ear. Quitting smoking lowers the chance of developing hearing loss.
9. High blood pressure – Uncontrolled hypertension can damage the small blood vessels of the inner ear. Keeping blood pressure in check helps preserve hearing.
10. Diabetes – Chronic high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can injure nerves in the ears. Controlling diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication may help prevent hearing loss.
Being aware of the risks for hearing loss allows you to take preventative action. Protect your ears from excessive noise, get regular checkups, and maintain healthy habits. If hearing loss occurs, hearing aids and implants can help you regain auditory function and improve communication. Consulting with a hearing specialist is advised to find the best solution for your needs.
