Hearing loss: Causes, treatment and tips to effectively communicate

According to the World Health Organization, by 2050, almost 2.5 billion people will have some degree of hearing loss. Whether it is permanent or temporary, hearing loss can be caused by exposure to loud noises (such as concerts or loud machinery), aging, ear infections, tumors, medical conditions or hereditary factors. Deyanira Gonzalez, an audiologist at Baylor College of Medicine, explains treatment and why hearing loss can begin in early adulthood.

Question: What are the signs of hearing loss?
Answer: Signs of hearing loss include:

• Asking others to repeat themselves.
• Adjusting the volume on the television.
• Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments.

Q: What treatments can help with hearing loss?
A: Hearing loss treatment options can include hearing aids or implantable options such as cochlear implants or bone conduction implants when medically indicated.

Some hearing losses can be treated medically with surgical procedures when the hearing loss is related to eardrum perforation or any growths in the middle ear behind the eardrum.

Q: Is it possible to have hearing loss in early adulthood (late teens, early 20s)? What could be the cause?
A: Yes, this can be due to genetics, toxic medications and trauma. More common causes include prolonged exposure to loud noises without hearing protection.

Q: Is there such a thing as a person who hears too well?
A: No, there is no such thing as “superior” hearing. However, there is a rare disorder called hyperacusis, where everyday sounds can be considered painfully loud.

Q: Can you ever become deaf to your partner’s tone?
A: Not really. Hearing loss can be observed across various pitches or in a single pitch. Our voice is not a single pitch. It’s possible that “selective hearing” is really just ignoring your partner.

Q: If you are around someone with hearing loss, what are some tips for effective communication?
A: When communicating with someone who has hearing loss, make sure you are both facing each other and speaking clearly at a normal volume and enunciating words. Reducing the background noise during a conversation is also very helpful. Lastly, turn off the television or lower the volume when talking to someone.

By Taylor Barnes