Hearing is one of our most important senses. Without the ability to hear, communication becomes difficult, social gatherings become frustrating, and quality of life suffers. Hearing loss usually develops slowly, often worsens with age and is generally permanent. It is typical for individuals with a mild to moderate hearing loss to be unaware of their problem, even though family and friends are quite aware of it.
Hearing loss is invisible and almost always painless. There are no physical warning signs, except in some cases there may be ringing in the ear(s). But, the real reason hearing loss "sneaks" up on you is that the change is so gradual. Most hearing losses develop over a period of years. By age 50 or 60, there can be enough deterioration to interfere with conversation.
Most audiologists believe that hearing loss in older adults is the accumulation of two or more causes, such as exposure to loud noises and family history, or simply the natural aging process.
Hearing loss is more common than most people realize. Statistics show that 1 in 10 people are affected by loss of hearing, and this number increases in persons over age 60 years.
An Audiologist is a hearing healthcare professional who holds a degree in Audiology and specializes in the assessment, prevention, and remediation of hearing and balance disorders. At Sound Hearing Clinic we are Doctors of Audiology (Au.D.). Consult one of the Audiologists at Sound Hearing Clinic for more information or for an appointment.