By Piedmont Ear, Nose and Throat Associates, PA

One in three persons over the age of 60 have some form of hearing loss, classified as conductive, sensorineural, or mixed.

A hearing loss is conductive when there is a problem with the ear canal, the eardrum and/or the middle ear, including the three bones connected to the eardrum. Common reasons for this type of hearing loss are a plug of excess wax in the ear canal or fluid behind the eardrum. Medical treatment or surgery may be available for these and more complex forms of conductive hearing loss.

A hearing loss is sensorineural when it results from damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve, often as a result of the aging process and/or noise exposure. Sounds may be unclear and/or too soft. Sensitivity to loud sounds may occur. Medical or surgical intervention cannot correct most sensorineural hearing losses. However, hearing aids may help reclaim some sounds that you are missing as a result of nerve deafness.

A hearing loss is mixed when it is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural.

How do you know if you have a hearing loss?

Many people have a hard time accepting that they have a hearing loss. Some feel that hearing loss is associated with age and are hesitant to wear hearing aids. Due to machine noise, loud music, or other by-products of our noisy environment, a growing number of young adults are experiencing hearing loss. Most hearing losses are difficult to recognize due to the fact that they gradually occur over a period of years. Often, people discover their hearing loss from the reaction of others, often family members.

Should you have your hearing checked?

1.  Do you have difficulty understanding speech in restaurants, church, or groups?

2.  Does it sound like people are mumbling/muffled when they speak to you?

3.  Do you need the radio or TV louder than other family members?

4.  Do you frequently ask for things to be repeated?

If you suspect you have a hearing loss, please contact a hearing specialist, to schedule a comprehensive audiogram to determine the type and degree of hearing loss and to discuss your hearing options.