Hearing loss falls into 3 basic categories, sensorineural, conductive and mixed, each can be treated. Let’s take a look at these and a few of the myths that are associated when loosing your hearing occurs.
It is important to remember that most hearing problems can be treated effectively. No matter how big or small you feel your questions are, we are here to answer any and all of your questions and concerns.
At Cobb Hearing Aid Services, your personal care is our top priority. Please feel free to call us at 770-509-0207 for a private personal consultation.
The Three Basic Categories Of Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Loss
Sensorineural loss is by far the most common and in most cases can be treated with hearing aids. For many patients, amplification is all that is needed. As your loss of hearing progresses and speech understanding gets worse a cochlear implant may be necessary to improve better hearing. The most common causes of sensorineural loss are excessive noise exposure and the normal aging process.
Conductive Loss
Conductive loss is when sound cannot reach the inner ear due to some form of blockage in the ear canal or middle ear. This can be as simple as impacted ear wax or as serious as chronic otitis media. Other causes may include congenital defects seen with children, most common with cleft lip and/or cleft palate. Most conductive hearing loss problems can be treated medically, however, with some chronic ear infection a new simple bone conduction system may provide excellent temporary benefit.
A Combination Of Sensorineural And Conductive Loss
Very often we see a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss problems. They may be caused from excessive ear wax blockage, ear infections, or ear/head trauma from accident. Mixed hearing problems may require both medical and audiological treatment. We perform a visual, otoscopic evaluation to determine if the mixed loss is caused from impacted ear wax or if medical referral is required. Most loss of hearing issues from mixed hearing problems can be treated effectively.
One Of The First Signs Of Hearing Loss
One of the first signs of loss you may experience, that most of our patients tell us they experience, goes something like this.
“My hearing loss occurred gradually over the years and I adjusted to not hearing everything. In the early stages I compensated and ignore it. Later, for an estimated 7 to 10 years I denied it. Only when my wife said ‘Honey, you need to get your hearing checked, you are just missing too much’. I got my hearing tested found out I had a hearing loss. I didn’t realize how much I was missing. Got some new hearing aids and boy am I glad I did. Now I can hear the TV better and she stopped nagging me about my hearing.”
Some Myths About Hearing
Here are two common myths about hearing loss. We have also compiled a FAQ page to answer other questions that patients have when they first contact us.
Am I Too Old For Hearing Aids
I’m 78 years old. Am I too old to get hearing aids? I here that question to often. Let’s look at it this way, hearing is an essential part of overall health and well-being. Your hearing keeps you connected with your friends, family and your world that is very important. You have a lot more of life to enjoy, don’t let this myth cause you to miss out any more.
My Doctor Said I Have A Nerve Loss And A Hearing Aid Won’t Help Me
My Doctor said I have a nerve loss, a hearing aid won’t help you. That is a myth, thankfully we don’t hear that very often anymore – in over 55 year I have treated thousands of patients with sensorineural (nerve) loss. Hearing aids will not restore hearing to normal, however, with professional counsel, evaluation and hearing aid selection your loss of hearing can be managed effectively.
Untreated Signs Of Loss Of Hearing And Other Health Issues
Untreated hearing loss has been linked to other life changing health issues such as depression, cognitive decline, and dementia. Patients who have treated their hearing loss early find they have more energy and enjoy social activities more. Patients who have not treated their hearing issues find it exhausting to hear and understand in group and when background noise is present. Ringing in your ears may be what is known as tinnitus and should be checked out as soon as possible. If you are tired of asking to have things repeated or saying “WHAT?” all the time, it’s time to get help.
Remember at Cobb Hearing Aid Services we are here to help. You can call us at 770-509-0207 for a private and personal consultation.
