Your Hearing
Steps To Better Hearing
The journey to better hearing is unique to everyone. Depending on the degree, type and impacts of any hearing challenges, the solutions will be different. We recommend scheduling a hearing test to get clarity on your hearing and the best next steps.
About Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be hereditary or acquired. A congenital hearing loss is present at birth or soon after. An acquired hearing loss is one that is the result of noise exposure, medical conditions, ageing or other factors.
Depending on the part of the hearing system that is affected, hearing loss is categorized as conductive, sensorineural or a mixture of both.
Conductive hearing loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when transmission of sound through the outer ear or middle ear is disrupted. For example, excessive earwax in the ear canal, a hole in the eardrum, fluid buildup behind the eardrum or a middle ear infection can contribute to conductive hearing loss. The degree of loss varies, but you cannot have complete hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss can often be treated by medical or surgical means.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Most hearing losses are sensorineural. It is commonly caused by damage to the inner hair cells. Sensorineural hearing loss most often occurs from genetic factors such as family inheritance, excessive noise exposure, medical conditions or changes in the inner ear due to the natural ageing process. It often results in a loss of loudness and clarity. There are rarely any medical treatments, so hearing aids are often the recommended option.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural components. The conductive portion of a mixed hearing loss can often be medically treated. However, even after successful treatment there will still be an underlying sensorineural hearing loss which is permanent and may need amplification (hearing aid) depending on the level of severity.
Effects of Hearing Loss
Untreated hearing loss has real consequences for all involved – not just the individual.
- Increased anxiety and depression
- Family and social withdrawal
- Reduced potential
Treatment and Technologies
- Only 20% of people who could benefit from a hearing aid wear one
- Millions have suffered noise-induced hearing loss due to work-related noise
- Hearing decline can start before the age of 40
- Many people with hearing loss are below retirement age
- Most people with hearing loss can improve their communication with a properly fitted hearing aid and counselling
Hearing Aids
Communication in life is critical for your job and relationships. All social interactions are more rewarding when you can communicate effectively – and hearing aids can help. Individuals who get hearing aids benefit from:
- Fewer instances of confusion or misunderstanding
- Increased ability to concentrate
- Better memory skills
- Alertness and awareness
- More control over your life
Book Your Appointment
Book an appointment at Stanford Hearing Centre in Edmonton or our remote hearing centres in High Level, High Prairie and Slave Lake