Hearing loss, which was once associated with the elderly, is becoming a prevalent problem in youngsters and baby boomers. Exposure to loud music for extended period of time tops the list of noise induced hearing loss.
There are 3 types of hearing loss, categorized by the part of the auditory system that is affected.
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sounds are not properly conducted through the ear. This type of loss is characterized by a general reduction in sound level or the inability to hear faint sounds. It is often caused by a blockage in the ear, such as wax. Other causes can be an ear infection or allergy that stops sounds from traveling properly in the middle ear.
Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the middle ear or the nerve pathways of the ear. Age and exposure to loud noises are some of the factors that contribute to this type of hearing loss.
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing losses, which occurs when there is damage to both the inner and outer ear areas. This type of hearing loss can be prevented.
The degree of hearing loss refers to the thresholds at which soft noises can be heard. There are 5 main categories: normal loss, mild loss, moderate loss, severe loss and profound loss. A hearing test can determine the degree of hearing loss you have.
Here are some tips for preventing hearing loss.
1. Most people turn up the volume on their television or radio in an attempt to drown out other noises. We live in a noisy environment. If you turn up the volume to the extent that you can no longer hear outside noises it is probably too loud. If others can hear the sound from your earbuds or headphones, it means the volume is too high.
2. Ear bud headphones have been found to be more damaging than over-the-ear style headphone. Ear buds creates more impact as they are closer to the inner ear. The advantage of over-the-ear style headphones is that they have noise cancellation that eliminates background noise without having to turn up the volume.
3. Reduce exposure time to loud noises. This includes all types of noise such as lawn mowers, food mixers, hair dryer and the like.
4. Use ear protection such as ear plugs or ear muffs wherever exposed to dangerous noise levels, be it at home, at work and at play.
5. As a parent, teach your child to listen to music or television at a safe level.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a personal grant so I can getn ...
By: blueknight5200 | 29-06-2008
How do I apply for a personal grant so I can getn hearing aids
Help fo Hearing Loss
By: charleskrauser | 22-06-2008
I read that taking 600 mg Vitamin C together with 300Mg of rebamipide daily, can cure hearing loss. Is this true? Has anyone had experience with this?
I wear 2 hearing aids, am I considered disabled ...
By: Carolyn Kuz | 12-05-2008
I wear 2 hearing aids, am I considered disabled under the ADA?
When i play cod4 i can hear the game and when i ...
By: van_canucks | 11-04-2008
When i play cod4 i can hear the game and when i play music from windows media i can hear sound but when i watch youtube or watch a video on facebook NO SOUND how can i fix this?
What if a police officer lets a complete stranger hear your personal info?
By: mcconley | 09-04-2008
What if a police officer lets a complete stranger listen to your name birthday and SS # even after you ask who that person was, is it wrong? Can the charges be dropped against you?
Look I was arrested for having sex with my 15 year ...
By: Ravenn666 | 04-04-2008
Look I was arrested for having sex with my 15 year old girl friend she'll be 16 in may this year, the officer questioned me and my girlfriend before either of us were read our right to remain silent and so forth, does this mean that my prior statement to them will be held from court. My e-mail i liquid_venom2004@yahoo.com, name the e-mail as Court Based, and i'll recieve your suggestions, and for those of you who might wonder no it was not rape, it was consensual, and we happen to have a 3month old daughter who happens to be absolutely beautiful, please help a guy out, any suggestions as to what to do would help. My ariegnment is the 10th of this month.
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