Hearing Loss Causes
Hearing loss can result from an obstruction or damage in any of the three parts of the ear.
Types of hearing loss
Hearing loss resulting from a problem located in the outer or middle ear is called a conductive hearing loss. A hearing loss caused by a damaged inner ear is called sensorineural. This is the most common hearing loss. Should the loss be the result of a combination of these, this is known as a mixed hearing loss.
Possible causes of hearing loss in
.the outer ear
Typical problems include excessive accumulation of earwax and infection of the auditory canal.
.the middle ear
Perforation of the eardrum, infection and otosclerosis (a calcification around the stapes limiting its ability to move) are the most common causes. Many outer and middle ear problems can be treated successfully with medication or surgery. Should this not be the case, remaining hearing loss can usually be helped by using hearing instruments.
.the inner ear
The majority of hearing problems result from damaged inner ear structures. Typical causes are the natural ageing process, excessive exposure to noise, medication that is toxic to the auditory system and head injuries. In such cases the tiny hair cells in the cochlea are damaged, obstructing the transfer of sound signals to the brain. As a rule this damage cannot be reversed medically. However, well-fitted hearing instruments can usually help a great deal to overcome the resulting problems.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the sensation of ringing or other sound in the head. It may occur in conjunction with a hearing loss. The causes of tinnitus are as varied as those of hearing loss and the cause may not be evident in the individual case.
Hearing Loss Consequences
In the USA in 1999, the National Council on the Ageing (NCOA) carried out a survey among people over the age of 50 who have a hearing loss.
The NCOA survey showed that most hearing instrument users reported significant improvement in their quality of life since they started using hearing instruments.
The survey also showed that, in comparison to people who use hearing instruments, those who do not were more likely to report the following:
- Sadness and depression
- Worry and anxiety
- Paranoia
- Less social activity
- Emotional turmoil and insecurity
For those whose hearing loss was treated the reported benefits included:
- Better relationships with their families
- Better feelings about themselves / higher self-esteem
- Improved mental health
- Greater independence and security
More than half of the users reported improvement in their domestic relationships and in their level of self-esteem. About 40% said that their lives had improved in general, that they felt better mentally and they had a higher degree of self-confidence.
To find more information on the psychological, social and physical consequences of hearing loss go to the non-commercial website www.hear-it.org.
