Hearing Loss
What causes hearing loss?
Hearing loss is largely the result of the natural ageing process. Other causes include hereditary factors, prolonged exposure to noise over 85 decibels (equivalent to heavy road traffic), illness, accidents or medications. The majority of hearing loss is ‘sensorineural’, namely irreversible damage to the sound-conducting hair cells of the inner ear. The degree of loss can range from mild to profound, and most people with hearing difficulties can benefit from using hearing instruments. Continuing to suffer with hearing loss can significantly affect our social life and our relationships, and often leads to a feeling of isolation.
The following list of questions, while not exhaustive, will provide good indication of any hearing problems.
- Do you often feel that other people are ‘mumbling’?
- Do you have trouble understanding a conversation when there is background noise?
- Do you need to turn up the volume on the television or radio?
- Do you often ask people to repeat what they have said?
- Do you feel stressed or tired when you have to listen for long periods?
- Do you avoid social gatherings because there is too much noise and you struggle to hear?
- Do friends and family ask if you have a hearing problem?
If you have answered 'yes' to three or more of these questions, we recommend an in-depth hearing assessment (free of charge) with one of our hearing aid audiologists. A proper hearing test will determine the nature of your loss, whether you require further medical opinion and whether a hearing aid can help.