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Hearing loss can have a profound impact on your life, but fortunately, treatments are available if you are experiencing problems. Frank Kardos, MD, your Wayne, NJ, ear, nose and throat doctor, is here to share information about hearing loss causes and treatments.
Aging
Hearing loss can happen as part of the natural aging process. If your problem is age-related, you may have difficulty keeping up with a (1).jpg)
conversation, or might find that it's hard to hear when it's noisy.
Earwax buildup
The cause of your hearing loss can be a simple as an accumulation of wax in your ear. In addition to hearing loss, you may also experience ringing in your ears and an earache.
Fluid buildup
Fluid buildup in the middle ear can cause temporary hearing loss. The problem is common if you have an ear infection.
Meniere's disease
Meniere's disease affects the inner ear and causes hearing loss, ringing, dizziness and sensitivity to sounds. The disease is most common in people who are between ages 30 and 50.
Noise-induced hearing loss
Exposure to loud noises, particularly if exposure continues for long periods, can damage your hearing. If you work in a noisy environment, failing to wear ear protection may increase your risk of developing hearing loss.
Otosclerosis
Otosclerosis is a disease of the middle ear caused by the overgrowth of bones surrounding the stapes bone. The overgrowth affects the transmission of sounds from the middle to the inner ear.
Acoustic neuroma
An acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor that develops on the nerve that extends from your inner ear to your brain. In addition to hearing loss, the tumor can also affect your balance and cause ringing in your ear.
What types of treatments are available for hearing loss?
Treatments vary depending of the cause of your hearing loss. Hearing aids can be helpful in many cases, particularly if your loss is age-related. Antibiotics and decongestants can clear the fluid that accumulates during an ear infection. When fluid buildup is a chronic problem, your doctor may suggest piercing the eardrum to allow for better drainage or may recommend improving drainage by inserting tubes in your ears. Surgery may be needed to remove tumors or correct problems related to your bones or nerves.
Neglecting hearing issues can lead to permanent hearing loss, in some cases. If have trouble hearing, call Frank Kardos, MD, your Wayne, NJ, ear, nose and throat doctor, at (973) 956-1200 to schedule an appointment. There is hope for hearing loss!