Understanding what causes hearing loss can not only help to prevent it, but can also help sufferers to find the best treatment and/or coping strategies for their specific type of hearing loss. A hearing aid tailored to suit one's particular symptoms of hearing loss is most likely to improve that person's quality of life.
If you suspect that you are experiencing noise-induced hearing loss, read further to gain a better understanding of what causes it, who is most likely to experience it, and how to address it.
Loud Noises: A Leading Cause of Hearing Loss
One of the leading causes of hearing loss is damage to the ear as a result of loud noises. The inner compartments of the ear can easily become damaged, and as a result, exposure to loud noises, especially over a long period of time, can permanently damage one's ability to hear.
This type of hearing loss is commonly called "noise-induced hearing loss." Much like age-related hearing loss, noise-induced hearing loss occurs when the sensitive hair cells inside the cochlea are damaged. The cochlea is the spiral, coiled tube section in the inner ear, where the sensitive hair cells are found. The speed at which the cochlea is damaged is only increased if a person is regularly exposed to loud noises.
Who Is at Risk of Noise-induced Hearing Loss?
As you might imagine, certain people are more likely to experience hearing loss from exposure to loud noises. For example, people who work in environments that regularly expose them to loud noises, particularly those who use compressed-air hammers or pneumatic drills, are more likely to experience this type of hearing loss.
Loud music is another common culprit, especially for those who work in sound tech teams or at nightclubs. Leisurely habits may also increase our risk for this hearing loss, especially with today's wide-spread use of headphones for personal music.
Although the damage caused by loud noises typically occurs over a long period of time, hearing loss can also occur as a result of a sudden, extremely loud noise, such as an explosion. Sudden damage to the ear that results from exceptionally loud noise is often referred to as "acoustic trauma."
How Can You Address Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
If you believe you may be suffering from noise-induced hearing loss, or acoustic trauma, it is important to consult your doctor as soon as possible. A professional can offer you a diagnosis and the best measures for coping with and/or treating your condition.
If you already have a diagnosis of noise-induced hearing loss, or hearing loss in general, Advanced Affordable Hearing can help. Since 1996, we've been sending reasonably priced hearing aids directly to people like you.
To start on your journey to hearing better, simply visit our Online Hearing Check, or call one of our representatives at 1 (800) 804-0434, to get a general sense of your level of hearing loss. After that, we can help you to purchase hearing aids that will be right for you.
Don't hesitate to contact us now.
For more information on hearing loss, read our posts: