Our ears are our second-most essential sensory organ after our eyes, thus hearing loss has serious repercussions. Most often, hearing loss is brought on by ageing. Yet, it can also be inherited or brought on by illnesses, loud noises, or both. Hearing loss can happen suddenly, but it usually happens gradually, so you don’t notice it until it gets worse. Thankfully, most hearing impairments can be treated with hearing aids.
Degrees of hearing loss
The severity of the hearing loss is determined by the degree of hearing loss, which is typically classified as mild, moderate, severe, or profound.
Decibels (dB) are units of measurement that describe how loud sounds must be in order for you to hear them.
Normal hearing
No perceived hearing loss symptoms
Mild hearing loss
Keeping up with conversations, especially in noisy surroundings is difficult. Some soft sounds are missed completely.
Moderate hearing loss
Difficulty to keep up with a conversation without the use of a hearing aid. Soft and moderately loud noises are not heard.
Severe hearing loss
Group conversations are possible only with a lot of effort, and lip reading skills.
Profound hearing loss
Rely mostly on lip reading and/or sign language. Communication without a hearing aid is not possible.
Hearing Loss Facts
1. Hearing loss is common
One in every three people over the age of 65 live with hearing loss
2. Physicians rarely test for hearing loss
In spite of the many health risks associated with hearing loss, most doctors don’t screen patients for hearing loss at annual physicals.
3. Hearing loss may increase your risk of cognitive decline
Studies suggest that older people with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, and hearing loss can be associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline.
4. People with hearing loss are 3 times more likely to suffer a fall
Hearing loss is one of several factors causing falls. Even a mild degree of hearing loss triples the risk of an accidental fall.
5. Current smokers have a 70% Higher Risk of having hearing loss than non-smokers
There have been many studies conducted that conclude the link between smoking and potential hearing loss.
6. The most common cause of hearing loss is noise
Noise is the leading cause of hearing loss. You can protect your hearing by reducing your exposure to loud noise or wearing suitable protection such as ear muffs or ear plugs
Do not be one of the many people who wait to take action if you believe you have hearing issues. Get the information you need and schedule a free hearing test right away.
