While hearing loss is a common issue, some people feel ashamed that it has happened to them. There is no reason to feel this way, as treatment methods are available to help improve the quality of your life. A trained audiologist can help point you in the right direction.
Types of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is a common issue. Issues with hearing can typically be detected through professional hearing evaluations. These evaluations will determine which type of hearing loss is present and what treatment solutions will be available to that individual. There are three different types of hearing loss, all of which can be treated. However, hearing loss is a permanent condition. Hearing loss treatment options can provide those experiencing hearing impairment to regain a positive quality of life back.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss happens when there is an obstruction in the ear, causing sound not to be able to reach the inner ear properly. This could be due to something as simple as too much ear wax to something more severe like a ruptured eardrum. A hearing specialist will be able to determine what is causing the obstruction and provide you with treatment solutions. Most of these treatment solutions involve procedures or medications to alleviate the problem.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This type of hearing loss happens when the cochlea is not able to properly send signals to the brain. The cochlea is the organ inside your ear that allows you to hear. This type of hearing loss is the most common and is typically due to the natural aging process. However, certain diseases and exposure to extremely loud noises can cause this type of hearing loss as well. Hearing aids are usually the most preferred solution for this type of hearing loss.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is exactly what it sounds like. Mixed hearing loss refers to when both conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss is present.
Challenges Those with Hearing Loss Face
There are several challenges that those with hearing loss will face. This is why it is pertinent that those suffering from hearing loss seek out the help that they need. Hearing loss is nothing to be ashamed of and is a common issue. A professional audiologist can help provide you with treatment options for your needs.
Loss of Independence
Suffering from a hearing impairment can mean that you are also experiencing a loss of independence. Often, those with hearing loss will have to rely on others in order to be able to know what is going on around them. They may want key aspects of their favorite tv show relayed to them or something someone said over the one repeated several times. While this not only is a loss of independence, it can also put a strain on personal relationships. As time goes on, friends and family may become frustrated or overwhelmed.
Depression
Those who cannot hear properly often suffer from depression. This is typically because of the major life changes that result from not being able to hear, such as a loss of independence and increased emotional strain. Suffering from hearing loss can take a toll on a person emotionally, causing them to distance themselves from friends and family. Communication is the basis of almost all relationships. Without a means to communicate, withholding relationships may prove to be more challenging.
Social Isolation
Not being able to hear properly can cause someone to socially isolate themselves. This could be due to a few different reasons. Straining to hear certain voices or noises can cause someone to feel overworked and tired, causing them to leave social situations early. They may also not like relying on others in order to hear.
Hearing Aids with Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence completely redefines a hearing aid’s capabilities, making them more user friendly and adaptable. Hearing aids built with AI have the ability to adapt and make changes, almost as if they were learning. These changes can be programmed into settings that a user would be able to choose at a later date. These settings help the user adjust to the environment and noise levels with ease.
How Can Hearing Aids Help Those with Hearing Loss?
Hearing aids provide a multitude of benefits for those suffering from hearing loss. Hearing aids provide users with a means to form connections and communicate with those around them, as well as listen to the happenings that surround them. This improves their quality of life by decreasing their need to rely on others and limited their emotional strain. A professional audiologist can help to match them to a preferred solution.
