Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a gradual or sudden reduction in the ability to hear sounds, and it can affect people of all ages. The causes of hearing loss can vary, and in this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common causes.
Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis)
Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is the most common cause of hearing loss. It occurs gradually over time as the hair cells in the inner ear deteriorate, which affects the ability to hear high-frequency sounds. Age-related hearing loss is a natural part of aging, and it usually affects people over the age of 65. This type of hearing loss can make it difficult to hear certain higher-pitch sounds, which can include parts of conversations. Neosensory Clarify is designed specifically to help those with high-frequency hearing loss to understand speech more clearly.
Exposure to loud noise
Exposure to loud noise, whether it is a one-time exposure or prolonged exposure over time, can cause hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). It can occur in people of all ages and can be caused by loud music, firearms, power tools, and heavy machinery. The risk of NIHL increases with the duration and intensity of exposure. Wearing protective gear, such as ear plugs or earmuffs, can reduce the likelihood of developing this type of hearing loss.
Genetics
Hearing loss can also be caused by genetic factors. Some people are born with hearing loss, while others develop it later in life due to a genetic condition. Genetic hearing loss can be caused by a single gene mutation or a combination of gene mutations. Genetic hearing loss can be mild, moderate, or severe, and it can affect one or both ears.
Ear infections
Ear infections, such as otitis media, can cause hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is usually temporary and is caused by fluid buildup in the middle ear. Ear infections can affect people of all ages, but they are more common in children. If left untreated, ear infections can cause permanent hearing loss.
Medications
Certain medications can cause hearing loss. These medications are known as ototoxic medications and include some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ototoxic medications can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss, depending on the dosage and duration of use.
Trauma to the ear or head
Trauma to the ear or head can also cause hearing loss. This can be caused by a blow to the head, a loud explosion, or a sudden change in air pressure, such as during air travel. Trauma to the ear or head can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss, depending on the severity of the injury.
Diseases and medical conditions
Certain diseases and medical conditions can cause hearing loss. These include Meniere’s disease, acoustic neuroma, otosclerosis, and autoimmune inner ear disease. These conditions can cause mild to severe hearing loss and can affect one or both ears.
Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, and the causes can vary depending on the individual. Some causes of hearing loss, such as age-related hearing loss and exposure to loud noise, are preventable. If you are experiencing hearing loss, it is important to see an audiologist or hearing healthcare professional to determine the cause and the appropriate course of treatment. With proper treatment and management, many people with hearing loss can improve their hearing and maintain their quality of life.
How we can help
Through our neuroscience-approved technologies, Neosensory can help you with understanding conversations more clearly, reducing the intensity of tinnitus and experiencing sounds again.
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) often goes hand-in-hand with hearing loss and can be a difficult constant annoyance. Neosensory Duo is scientifically proven to help reduce the volume of tinnitus. Please read our paper in The International Tinnitus Journal to learn how Duo uses bimodal stimulation to help users find peace again.