From listening to music to interpersonal communication, our hearing greatly impacts the way we interact with the world around us. Whether the causes of hearing loss be congenital (born without hearing) or due to noise exposure, chronic infections, or aging, a loss of hearing can prove to be a particularly troublesome and sometimes isolating issue for patients.
Hearing Loss Symptoms and Risk Factors
While age can be a common factor in the cause of hearing loss, repeated exposure to everyday noises can also impact hearing. Working in an area with loud machinery without the proper hearing protection or listening to loud music often are also possible causes of hearing loss.
In the case of gradual hearing loss over a significant period of time, patients may have trouble recognizing diminished hearing. Hearing loss symptoms include:
- A ringing, roaring, hissing, or buzzing in the ear, known as tinnitus
- Ear pain, irritation, or fluid leaking from the ear
- Having to listen to the TV or radio at a higher volume than before
- Muffled hearing or feeling that your ear or ears may be plugged
- Trouble understanding what others are saying, especially when there is background noise present
If you are concerned about hearing loss or notice any of these symptoms, our team of specialists can perform tests to determine the level of loss and provide you with courses of treatment to restore hearing, including hearing aids and implants. We offer services for both adult and pediatric patients.
For More Information
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 847.504.3300.