Hearing Loss Information

For many, hearing loss is part of the aging process. Hearing loss can also be caused by: genetic predisposition, ear infections, diseases, traumatic lesions or overexposure to noise.

A Common Problem

Hearing loss is one of the most common health problems. It is also unfortunately one of the most ignored problems. However, hearing loss and its psychological effects can be easily treated successfully.

Hearing Without Understanding

Suffering from hearing loss is not the same as hearing sounds as if the volume was low. In fact, you may notice that some spoken sounds, such as sh, s, and f, are harder to hear than others. That's why some people with hearing loss say they can hear people talking, but don’t understand what they are saying.

Today’s Hearing Aids Are Different

Technology has made tremendous progress and now offers easy and sophisticated solutions to fit your lifestyle. Today's hearing aids are a lot smaller, some are almost invisible, and many of them can integrate seamlessly with other technologies such as cell phones, music players and electronic tablets that support Bluetooth® technology. Talk to your hearing care professional for more details.

The Problem Is Not Limited to a Hearing Disorder

While most hearing losses don't cause physical suffering, they often have unfortunate social and psychological consequences, including lack of communication, social isolation, work difficulties, depression, frustration and loss of self-esteem. Untreated hearing loss in children can delay the development of speech, language and learning abilities.

Signs of Hearing Loss

If you think that you are suffering from hearing loss, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you often ask others to repeat what they are saying?
  
  
• Do you listen to the television or radio at a higher volume than others?
  
  
• Is it particularly difficult for you to follow a conversation when there is background noise?
  
  
• Do you think others are mumbling when they are talking to you?
  
  
• Do you have difficulty following group conversations?
  
  
• Do you find it difficult to identify where sounds are coming from?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may have a hearing problem. It is extremely important that you speak to a hearing care professional who can help you determine the degree of your hearing loss and the steps you need to take.

You Are Not Alone

If you think that you are less inclined to socialize, attend meetings, or group events due to a decrease in your hearing, it is important to have your hearing evaluated by a certified audiologist. Because auditory deterioration is gradual. People around you will often notice it before you. It is important to know that you are not alone. About 1 in 10 people suffers from some level of hearing loss. Fortunately, about 90% of these people can be helped with hearing aids.