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Are you having trouble hearing? Maybe you have thought about getting a hearing aid, but you are worried about how it will look and whether it will really help. Hearing loss typically occurs gradually. In fact, many people affected by it do not recognize the early signs. In many cases, family, friends and co-workers notice the problem in others before the individual does. However, the earlier you address potential hearing loss, the better. Not only will it enhance your quality of life, but also broadens the scope of treatment options available. If hearing loss is identified there are many options to explore that can help you get back in touch and prevent further damage to your hearing. You can't reverse hearing loss, but you also do not have to live in a world of quieter, less distinct sounds. Hearing Loss Caused from Noise Loud noise can be very damaging to the ears. Both the level of noise and the length of time you listen to the noise can put you at risk for noise-induced hearing loss. Noise levels are measured in decibels, or dB for short. The higher the decibel level, the louder the noise. Sounds that are louder than 85 dB can cause permanent hearing loss. The hearing system can be injured not only by a loud blast or explosion, but also by prolonged exposure to high noise levels. You can tell that you are listening to dangerous noise levels if: * You must raise your voice to be heard
* You can't hear someone 3 feet away from you
* Speech around you sounds muffled or dull after you leave the noisy area
* You have pain or ringing in your ears after exposure to noise Noise induced hearing loss is usually permanent and progresses with each exposure. When exposed to loud noises, it is important to wear proper ear protection in order to prevent hearing loss. Hearing Aids Help in Hearing Loss If you are having trouble hearing, it is important to first visit your ENT in Bend for proper diagnosis and treatment. With proper assessment you will learn about your ability to hear pure tone sounds and to understand words. The results of your hearing tests will show the degree of hearing loss and whether it is conductive or sensorineural. In addition, your tests may give other medical information about your ears and health. A hearing aid is an electroacoustic device that fits in or behind your ear, and is designed to amplify and modulate sound. There are several types of hearing aids available, varying in size, power and circuitry. Your doctor will be able to help prescribe a proper hearing aid for your individual hearing loss. It is important for your hearing aid to be custom fitted to your ear and hearing needs. Hearing aids that are purchased by mail-order typically cannot be custom fitted. Talk to your Bend ENT if you are having difficulty hearing. Seeking treatment can dramatically improve the quality of life of the individual effected and his or her loved ones. People who use hearing aids report greater self-confidence, closer relationships with loved ones and an improved outlook on life, overall.
Dr. Ryan Gallivan is an ENT in Bend, specializing in various services including sleep apnea, voice disorders, sore throat, hearing loss, nasal fractures, ear infections and hearing aids in Bend, among several other services. Providing the best in quality ENT care, patients turn to Dr. Gallivan for all of their ear, nose and throat needs.
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