Basically, hearing loss is a reduction of a person’s ability to hear. Since the loss is invisible, it is not obvious. An estimated one third of the population over 65 has a hearing loss. One half of the population over 75 is affected as well.

That is not to say that children are not affected as well. Indeed a baby can be born deaf. The problem is universal. If you live to a ripe old age, the odds are that you will develop a hearing problem. Age-related hearing loss has a technical name, prebycusis.

Presbycusis is a loss of hearing that gradually occurs because of changes in the inner or middle ear in individuals as they grow older.

There are different types of hearing loss. The first type is called a conductive hearing loss. In this case there is a problem with the transfer of sound to the inner ear. The cause could be infection, earwax, or damage to the eardrum.

A second type of loss is caused by nerve damage and results in sounds not going to the brain. This is called a sensorineural hearing loss. Generally, this type of loss cannot be reversed. There could be damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve causing the problem.

A third type of loss is called a central hearing loss. In this case there could be a tumor causing the loss, or damage to the central nervous system. For example, a person who has had a stroke could have this type of loss.

Some people have a combination of any one or more of these problems. It is important to visit an ear doctor to get a correct diagnosis. The physician will have an audiologist give you hearing tests to discover the extent of the loss.

The physician might order other medical tests if the loss is severe. Visit a doctor early to get the correct diagnosis and begin therapy.

Hearing problems are not simple. People try to ignore or hide the symptoms. There are many signs that are signals:

Naturally, if a person fails to respond, one needs to assess the reason. Is it because they are unable to hear, or is it for a different reason? This failure to respond could signal there are problems. Defining the problem includes noting if the loss is mild, moderate, or severe. Is the loss in one ear or both ears? How severe is the loss? An analysis is needed to differentiate the type of loss.

By seeking the appropriate medical help early, corrective therapy can begin. If you are unsure about the diagnosis, think about getting a second or third opinion. Select professionals from different locations, and then compare what each one says. Finding accurate information can take time, but it is time well spent. Hearing is important, and you want to follow the most logical corrective procedures.