Hearing Loss Basics

Hearing loss affects people in different ways, but often we see an effect on personal relationships, self-confidence, job or school performance and overall emotional well-being. Let’s face it, being able to clearly hear what happens around you is important.

If you are experiencing difficulty hearing, you are not alone. Over 36 million Americans have some extent of hearing loss, making it the third most common health problem in the United States. Sadly, only one out of five people who could benefit from a hearing device will utilize one.

Common causes of hearing loss include:

• Noise exposure
• Head injuries
• Genetics
• Age
• Repeated ear infections

Common symptoms of hearing loss include:

• Difficulty hearing over background noises
• Requiring the TV or radio to be louder than others feel is needed
• Difficulty hearing individual words or thinking that others are mumbling
• Ringing in the ears that distracts from general sounds or conversations

If you experience any of these symptoms, a simple hearing evaluation can be done at Atlanta ENT to determine the extent of your hearing loss. The test is painless, and does not take very long to complete. In addition, your provider will examine your ears, nose and throat to rule out possible medical causes that could be treated, such as an ear infection. Should you benefit from a hearing aid, options will be discussed, many of which are very small and unnoticeable to others.

Ramie Tritt, M.D., President, Atlanta ENT