What is a Hearing Loss?

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Hearing loss occurs when sound signals do no reach the brain. The main types of hearing loss are:  sensorineural hearing loss – caused by damage to the sensitive hair cells inside the inner ear or damage to the auditory nerve; this occurs naturally with age or as a result of injury. Secondly,  conductive hearing loss – when sounds are unable to pass from your outer ear to your inner ear, often because of a blockage such as earwax, glue ear or a build-up of fluid from an ear infection, or because of a perforated ear drum or disorder of the hearing bones It's also possible to have both these types of hearing loss. This is known as mixed hearing loss.  Some people are born with hearing loss, but most cases develop as you get older. 

How hearing loss is treated depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Conductive hearing loss is often temporary and treatable.  For example, earwax build-up can be removed by drops, a syringe or suction. Hearing loss caused by a bacterial infection can be treated with antibiotics. Surgery can be used to drain a fluid build-up, repair a perforated eardrum, or correct problems with the hearing bones.  However, hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear or to the nerves that transmit sound to brain (sensorineural hearing loss) is permanent.  If your hearing is impaired, treatment can improve your hearing and quality of life. It is important to see an audiologist to determine the best course of action for your particular circumstances. latest hearing aids

If you have hearing problems, you may be able to wear a hearing aid. About 1.4 million people regularly use hearing aids in the UK, and many more would benefit from them.  A hearing aid is an electronic device that consists of a microphone, an amplifier, a loudspeaker and a battery. It increases the volume of sound entering your ear, so you can hear things more clearly.  The microphone picks up sound, which is made louder by the amplifier. Hearing aids are fitted with devices that can distinguish between background noise, such as traffic, and foreground noise, such as conversation.  Modern hearing aids are very small and discreet, and can often be worn inside your ear.  Hearing aids help improve hearing, and quality of life.  Your audiologist (hearing specialist) can advise you about whether a hearing aid is suitable for you.  If a hearing aid is recommended, an audiologist may take an impression of your ear so the hearing aid fits you perfectly or may show you an open fit hearing aid. The hearing aid will be adjusted to suit your level of hearing impairment. You'll also be shown how to use and care for it