3 Easy Ways to Treat Hearing Loss

A couple of decades ago, issues related to hearing loss were not so common. In fact, it was perceived by many to be a health problem that only affects the old. However, today, hearing loss is the third most prevalent health problem affecting both young and older Americans alike. In addition, there were a limited number of treatments available for hearing loss. Luckily, technology has really advanced and has led to several innovations in the health sector, as well as in the other sectors of the economy.

We have several options to choose from when it comes to treating hearing loss. To select the right form of treatment, a hearing screening and evaluation should be performed by a hearing healthcare professional. Once a baseline hearing test has been established, your hearing care practitioner will be able to recommend the best treatment plan for your individual loss. The three most common hearing loss treatments include:

1.     Hearing Aids

Hearing aids amplify sound loud enough for you to hear. For hard-to-hear patients, these mechanical hearing devices are specifically designed to increase the ability to hear properly so they can enjoy their everyday life as usual. In most cases, a hearing aid is one of the least invasive methods of treating hearing loss.

Hearing aids are effective in treating mild and moderately severe hearing loss. They can be worn by people of all ages, including infants. In addition, there are several types of hearing aids available in different styles and sizes. However, before buying any hearing aid, you will need the assistance of a reputable audiologist to select the right one.

2.     Cochlear Implants

A cochlear implant is an electronic device which helps people with severe to profound hearing loss. For a person with a serious hearing issue, using a hearing aid may not be enough; however, a cochlear implant may get the job done. Unlike hearing aids, a cochlear implant does not amplify sounds. Instead, these implants send sound signals directly to the hearing nerves and improve the ability to hear properly.

3.     Medical and Surgical Treatments

Medical and surgical treatments for hearing loss include medications and surgery. These forms of treatments can help many types of hearing problems and can be used to treat conductive hearing loss or any hearing problem which may result from a damaged outer or middle ear.

Conductive hearing loss can be caused by the buildup of ear wax that ultimately obstructs the ear canal. Another common cause of hearing loss is chronic infection which is a build-up of fluid in the middle ear. However, most of these ear infections can be treated using medications, such as antibiotics. If the problem persists, a surgery may be necessary. However, before opting for any form of treatment, it is vital to consult a hearing healthcare professional and undergo proper diagnosis.

The treatments above are the most common to help individuals with hearing loss. However, there are other hearing devices and treatments that can help improve hearing for the hard-to-hear victims as well, including: bone-anchored hearing aids, hearing intensification and assistive listening devices.