Your Guide to Hearing Loss

Discover causes, symptoms, and treatment options for better hearing health.

Causes

Types

Loss Impact

Treat

Hearing loss is common

Nearly 40 million Americans have hearing loss and this number is expected to rapidly climb over the next decade. Hearing changes can happen gradually, making hearing loss difficult to self-diagnose. In fact, most people are not able to identiy a 'normal' level of hearing or dectect their own level of hearing loss without the help of a hearing care professional. If you find that hearing changes are impacting your life, relationships, work, or everyday interactions, now is the time to take the first step towards better hearing.

Start with a virtual screening

What causes hearing loss?

Hearing loss can be caused by many different factors, but the most common causes of hearing loss are:

1. Noise

Exposure to an extremely loud noise such as an explosion
Continuous exposure to loud environmental or work sounds such as traffic, drills, sirens, etc.
Repeatedly listening to earbuds or headphones at high volumes.

Learn more on our hearing blog if earbuds can cause hearing loss and what decibel or noise levels are safe plus safety guidelines for the workplace.

2. Health

Certain infections such as bacterial meningitis and mumps can cause hearing loss
Genetics may cause full or partial hearing loss at birth
Family health history may indicate a pattern of hearing loss

Here are 5 reasons why treating your hearing loss is a foundation for overall health.

3. Age

Aging deteriorates inner ear function
Tiny hair cells that help you hear die with age and do not regrow
Chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, can lead to hearing loss

What is the connection of heart health and hearing loss?

Types of hearing loss

There are three main types of hearing loss, and treatment will often depend on the kind of hearing loss you have. Learn more about Sensorineural Hearing Loss vs. Conductive.

Types of hearing loss include:

Sensorineural hearing loss

The most common type of hearing loss is known as sensorineural hearing loss. It's a permanent hearing loss that occurs when there is damage to either the cells of the inner ear or the auditory nerve itself. In many adults, the cause is usually exposure to loud noise over time.

Conductive hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is an obstruction or damage to the outer or middle ear. This prevents sound from being conducted to the inner ear. It may be permanent or temporary, depending on the exact cause.

Mixed hearing loss

Mixed hearing loss is exactly what the name suggests: a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. It commonly occurs when there has been damage over time and some trauma to the ear.

The impact of hearing loss

Did you know?

Hearing loss can lead to many associated health conditions, including injury causing falls, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and depression.
Hearing loss often occurs gradually, and it can be hard to notice. That's why it's so important to get your hearing tested regularly, even if you think your hearing is 'just fine.'
Most hearing loss can be helped with the use of hearing aids.

Treat hearing loss

I might have hearing loss…

If you think you may have hearing loss or are experiencing any of the symptoms of hearing loss, you can take our quick and easy online hearing quiz to check to see if it may be time see a hearing care professional.

You can also contact us directly to find a hearing care provider near you, schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation, and check to see if you have an additional benefit though your health insurance provider or employer.

Take online hearing quiz

I have hearing loss…

If a hearing loss professional has diagnosed you with hearing loss, we can help. Amplifon Hearing Health Care gives you access to preferred pricing on hearing testing and devices. You may also have access to additional savings through your health insurance provider or employer.

Ready to get started?

Call us at (877) 846-7074. Our friendly and knowledgeable Hearing Care Advocates will help you find a hearing care provider near you.
Your Hearing Care Advocate will also explain the details of the Amplifon Program and assist you with making an appointment.
Amplifon will send you and your provider the necessary information to activate your Amplifon program.

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I know someone with hearing loss…

What can you do?

Be Compassionate - Denial is common among those with hearing loss; they may not want to admit they have a problem. Instead, listen and offer support while emphasizing ways they can proactively treat or manage hearing loss. Learn more on blog: Hearing loss as a disability
Share Your Knowledge - Advanced technology and personalized care have made hearing aids incredibly effective, comfortable, and nearly undetectable. Help educate the individual about different types of hearing aids and how to find care.
Minimize Anxieties - Seeking treatment for hearing loss can be overwhelming. Direct them to available resources, like what to expect at their first appointment and our hearing aid cost page. If you're able, offer support by attending appointments with them and encourage them to reach out to Amplifon if they have any questions about their hearing care benefit.

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Get Your Ears Checked!

Don't forget to make hearing care a part of your routine by visiting a hearing care provider for a comprehensive evaluation. Remember, you and your loved ones' hearing health is important, so be sure to make it a priority with support from Amplifon. We'll help you check your benefits and find a provider in your neighborhood. Want to check your hearing now? Try our free virtual screening!

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