Hearing Loss: Causes and Treatments

Hearing Loss: Causes and Treatments

Dealing with hearing loss in Oxnard, CA? Let us help you!

Hearing LossAnyone can have hearing loss, from children to senior citizens. In fact, approximately 15 percent of Americans over the age of 18 have said that they have some difficulty hearing. Wondering what causes hearing loss and how to protect your precious hearing? Turn to our Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura County and Thousand Oaks, CA, ENT doctors and audiologists for the answers you’re looking for to prevent or treat your hearing loss.

What causes hearing loss?

The most common cause of hearing loss is age. As we get older, most people will develop some degree of hearing loss in both ears. Of course, other factors that can affect your hearing include,

  • Ear infections
  • Genetics
  • Birth defects
  • Extreme noises

Both age and exposure to loud noises can lead to damage of the cochlea’s nerve cells and hairs, which is responsible for sending sound to the brain for it to interpret. If the hair or nerve cells are damaged, the signal isn’t properly transmitted to the brain, which results in hearing loss.

Is hearing loss preventable?

One of the best ways to prevent hearing loss is to protect your ears from loud noises. It’s important to understand what noises can be damaging to your hearing. Some of these noises include live concerts, dance clubs, firearm ranges, motorcycles, and powerboats.

Furthermore, there are certain professions that are at an increased risk for hearing loss due to constant exposure to loud noises. These professions include military personnel, construction workers, farmers, police officers, and musicians. It’s important that you always wear hearing protection such as earplugs if you work in a noisy environment.

We also know that a lot of people love blasting music at home or while exercising, but it’s important to be cognizant of how loud the music is and to adjust the sound so that it’s not hazardous to your hearing. It’s also a good idea to visit our otolaryngologists in Oxnard, CA, for regular screenings.

What are my treatment options if I have hearing loss?

The most common hearing loss treatment is a hearing aid. While a hearing aid will not restore your hearing, it will be able to improve your ability to hear certain tones and pitches that may have been difficult due to your hearing loss. The role of a hearing aid is to amplify certain sounds, making it easier to understand people, especially in noisier environments.

Depending on the type of hearing loss you are dealing with, one of our ENT specialists may recommend a cochlear implant or surgery.

Interested? Call today!

West Coast ENT is dedicated to providing comprehensive ear, nose, and throat care to Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura County and Thousand Oaks, CA. No matter whether you are dealing with symptoms of hearing loss or you already have been diagnosed and want to discuss hearing aid options, call our office today to schedule an appointment with us! (805) 379-9646

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