Hearing Test - Looking Closely at Auditory Impairment

A hearing test can determine if you've lost some of your ear's function. In doing so, you can get treatment or be directed towards devices that can help you make up for some of the impairment. Auditory impairment can happen in variety of ways and through damage to any of the three structures of the ear. These structures are the external folds or canal, the middle ear, or the inner ear. It is inner ear damage that is difficult to come back from. Nevertheless, technology has come a long way, giving hope to those who are suffering from progressive damage.

Types

There are two primary types of auditory loss, both of which can be diagnosed through a hearing test and further examination. The first kind of called conductive loss, which is where sound waves are being blocked before they can get to the inner ear. One of the most common causes of conductive loss is earwax, which can buildup in people prone to excessive production. This wax can sometimes be removed using over the counter drops in conjunction with a flushing bulb. If this fails, a doctor can typically remove it easily using in-office methods.

The other type of loss is known as sensorineural loss. In this form of impairment, sound waves encounter no obstruction on their way to the inner ear, but once there, a problem prevents them from being translated and processed correctly. There are two primary paths to this type of loss: noise-related damage and age-related degradation. In either of these cases, there is seldom anything that can be done in the way of reversing the problem. However, there are devices such as hearing aids that can allow people with impairment to continue to lead full lives.

Without Treatment

It is important that you get a hearing test and be evaluated by a physician if you feel that you are suffering from any type of auditory impairment. Studies have shown that the problems associated with impairment don't stop with just being unable to hear the television. Many experts have described increased feelings of depression, social withdrawal, and a loss of independence that goes along with auditory impairment. By seeking treatment and assistive options, you can reduce your chances of falling into these patterns.

With Treatment

While sensorineural loss cannot be treated using medicine or surgery, you may be surprised at how much help is available. Today's listening devices are more precise than ever and they have helped millions of Americans find a way to live with their impairment. It all starts with a simple hearing test.