As you age, it is normal to experience some hearing loss. However, realizing you are suffering from this condition may be surprising. Find out the warning signs of hearing loss and more with your doctor at West Coast Ear, Nose, and Throat in Simi Valley, CA.

Signs You May Be Suffering From Hearing Loss
Hearing loss usually occurs over time, making the signs and symptoms difficult to recognize. Some of the warning signs you may be suffering from hearing loss include:

• feeling as though those around you are mumbling
• others telling you the TV or radio is too loud when you feel it is at a normal, easy-to-hear volume
• feeling as though you need to concentrate harder than normal to hear conversations
• having a hard time hearing people in general, especially in a noisy area like a restaurant or event
• you often ask people to repeat things over the phone or in person

If you suffer from one or more of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment for a hearing assessment. This test helps your doctor understand the degree of your hearing loss and determine the best treatment plan for you.

Hearing Loss Treatment in Simi Valley, CA
The most common treatment for hearing loss comes in the form of a small device worn on or inside the ear called a hearing aid. These devices pick up sounds through a microphone, amplifies the sound, then produces it through a speaker. Hearing aids come in all shapes and sizes, including:

• BTE (behind the ear): This style of hearing aid wraps behind the ear to hold it in place. Made from plastic, this is the most common kind of hearing aid.
• ITE (in the ear): ITE hearing aids sit inside of the ear and are partially hidden from view. ITE hearing aids are still visible, though they do not wrap around the ear itself.
• ITC (in the canal): ITC aids sit either partially or completely in the ear’s canal and are hidden from view and unnoticeable to others.

A cochlear implant may be beneficial for those suffering from full hearing loss. The implant bypasses the damaged or non-working inner ear parts and transmits sounds directly to the implant, which sends them to the brain. Your doctor can help you determine if a hearing aid or cochlear implant is the best option for you.

For more information on hearing loss, please contact your doctor at West Coast Ear, Nose, and Throat in Simi Valley, CA. Call (805) 527-7320 to schedule your hearing assessment today!