Millions of Americans experience hearing loss, and in our Thousand Oaks, CA, office, we take pride in offering patients with state-of-the-art equipment that allows for the most accurate evaluation and appropriate treatment. Hearing loss happens gradually. It can be confusing, and you may not even realize that you are falling victim to this condition. At West Coast Ear, Nose, and Throat, we encourage you to read on for answers to our frequently asked questions about hearing loss.

How Do I Know If I Have Hearing Loss?

When engaging in conversation, are people often mumbling instead of enunciating? Do you regularly miss keywords in a sentence or ask friends and family to repeat themselves? Sometimes the symptoms of hearing loss are blatantly apparent, but it's significant to achieve a definite diagnosis to ensure successful treatment. If you continually turn up the volume on the radio, television, or someone close to you has mentioned you might be hard of hearing, consider setting up a diagnostic test.

Who is at Risk for Hearing Loss?

Aging is one of the most common causes of hearing loss but isn't always the reason for the problem. According to statistics, 35-55% correlates with genetics. Some illnesses, like meningitis, can also damage the mechanisms inside the ear, resulting in temporary or permanent hearing loss. Additionally, your career may have a large impact on your hearing capabilities. If you work in construction or in a warehouse with heavy machinery, this can also put you at risk.

What are the Treatment Options?

For Thousand Oaks, CA, patients who suffer from hearing loss, West Coast Ear, Nose, and Throat, offers different types of listening devices depending on the severity. After our audiologist assesses your hearing during an exam, he or she can determine which type of hearing aid is best suitable for your specific needs. Types of hearing aids range from in-the-ear, behind-the-ear, in-the-canal, or open fit. There are many different styles to choose from that are custom, convenient, discreet, and flexible for your lifestyle.

If you have concerns about hearing loss, we have licensed audiologists on staff to help you achieve proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options if necessary. At West Coast Ear, Nose, and Throat, we offer comprehensive hearing evaluations for patients from infancy to adulthood. For more information about hearing loss, the conditions we treat, and other services provided, visit our website. To schedule an appointment at our Thousand Oaks, CA, office, please call (805) 379-9646; for our office in Simi Valley, CA, call (805) 527-7320; for our Oxnard, CA, office, call (805) 983-0395; and for our office in Camarillo, CA, call (805) 484-5929.