Deafness and Communication
Disorder Terms Listed Alphabetically
The gradual loss of hearing that occurs as you age (presbycusis)
is a common condition. An estimated one-third of Americans
older than age 65 and one-half of those older than age 75
have a hearing impairment.
Over time, the wear and tear of noise contributes to hearing
loss by damaging the cochlea, a part of your inner ear.
Doctors believe that heredity and chronic exposure to loud
noises contribute to hearing loss. Other factors, such as
wax blockage, can prevent your ears from conducting sounds
as well as they should.
You can't reverse damage to your inner ear. However, you
don't have to live in a world of softer, less distinct sounds.
Steps you and your doctor or hearing specialist (audiologist)
can take can improve what you hear.
|
