About Hearing Loss

Hearing loss affects millions of adults. Many things can harm hearing. Conditions that can lead to hearing loss include a ringing or buzzing in the ear known as tinnitus, age-related hearing loss called presbycusis as well as hereditary causes. Older adults are the largest group affected by hearing loss. This can happen as a result of:

  • Too much noise
  • Certain medicines
  • Infections caused by bacteria or viruses
  • Head injury
  • Head tumors
  • Stroke
  • Inherited conditions

For some, hearing loss can be corrected with surgery. For others, medical devices and rehabilitation therapies often can help reduce hearing loss.

Did You Know?

One in 3 older adults over the age of 60 has hearing loss.

Nearly half of people ages 75 to 85 have hearing loss.

Are you experiencing hearing loss? 

If you think you may be experiencing hearing loss, take a moment to answer the following questions:

  • Do you have a problem hearing when you're on the phone?
  • Do you have trouble following the conversation when 2 or more people are talking at the same time?
  • Do people complain that you turn the TV volume up too high?
  • Do you have to strain to understand conversation?
  • Do you have trouble hearing in a noisy background?
  • Do you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves?
  • Do many people you talk to seem to mumble or not speak clearly?
  • Do you misunderstand what others are saying and respond inappropriately?
  • Do you have trouble understanding when women and children talk?
  • Do people get annoyed because you misunderstand what they say?
  • Do friends or relatives express concern about your hearing ability?
  • Do you hear a ringing, roaring or hissing sound a lot?   

If you answered yes to 3 or more of these questions, talk with your health care provider. Visit our team at Marshall Ear, Nose & Throat for a hearing assessment.