Hearing loss treatment options

 

Once a hearing professional has diagnosed you with hearing loss, it is time to explore your options. Your hearing professional can recommend the best treatment for you. Your type of hearing loss, budget and lifestyle may ultimately influence your decision.

Here are the hearing loss treatment options available and who they are best suited for.

Treatment for sensorineural hearing loss

One of the most common types of hearing loss is sensorineural hearing loss. This means there is damage or deterioration of the inner ear (cochlea) and/or the auditory nerve. This usually happens from exposure to noise and/or aging.

The inner ear and auditory nerve cannot repair themselves, making sensorineural hearing loss irreversible. As a result, it is often treated with hearing aids. Medication or surgery cannot treat this type of hearing loss.

Hearing aids

Hearing aids are a remarkable option for many people. They enhance your soundscape for a more natural listening experience. 

Hearing aids do not restore your hearing, but increase the volume of sounds you are not hearing. They include custom settings for different listening environments. They also come in many types, colours and styles.

Cochlear implants 

In profound hearing loss cases, cochlear implants are also a treatment option.

Cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices. They stimulate the auditory nerve, bypassing the damaged inner ear. This allows you to perceive sound you otherwise would not hear.

Your hearing professional may recommend cochlear implants if you are getting little or no benefit from wearing hearing aids. 

Treatment for conductive hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss is usually temporary. It occurs when an obstruction blocks sound from entering the inner ear. This can be due to 

• earwax buildup, 
• fluid in the middle ear system (such as during an ear infection), 
• a ruptured eardrum or 
• otosclerosis. 

Treatment often includes earwax removal, antibiotics or surgical procedures.

In rare cases, abnormalities of the outer or middle ear can cause conductive hearing loss. This includes ear canal stenosis (narrow ear canal) or exostosis (surfer’s ear). 

These conditions can be difficult to treat. Your hearing professional may also recommend hearing aids or a bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA).

BAHAs are surgically implanted devices. They send sound vibrations to the inner ear through the skull bone. BAHAs are ideal for those with single-sided deafness. They are also ideal if you have malformations of the outer or middle ear.

Treating hearing loss with assistive listening devices

In some cases, hearing aids alone cannot address specific listening situations. Assistive listening devices can help you hear better while 

• watching television,
• listening to the radio,
• talking on the phone, or 
• attending sermons or lectures. 

Your hearing care provider is an expert in this area and can provide guidance.

Hearing aid accessories and features

There are many features and accessories to help you get the most out of your hearing aids. These include 

• miniature microphones that make listening to someone from a distance easier, 
• wireless capabilities to stream music from your smart phone or car, and 
• the ability to make hands-free calls. 

A remote control can allow for easy volume and programming with the push of a button. It is small enough to carry in your pocket or handbag. These options can make using your hearing aids easier and more enjoyable.

What is the impact of untreated hearing loss?

Untreated hearing loss makes it difficult for you to follow conversations. It is often exhausting, and can trigger relationship problems. 

Untreated hearing loss may lead to reduced contact with family, friends and colleagues. This may lead to feelings of isolation and depression. Hearing loss may also affect your sense of safety. It may make you feel less stable, increasing your risk of falls.  

Hearing aid benefits

There are many evidence-backed benefits to treating your hearing loss, with hearing aids or other devices.

Hearing loss treatment may:

• Increase your self-confidence
• Improve communication
• Improve your sense of safety
• Improve relationships with friends, family and co-workers
• Increase your energy levels (less listening fatigue)
• Increase engagement and enjoyment in pastime activities

Bottom line: Hearing is central to your health and quality of life. If you are not enjoying the activities you used to and struggle to follow conversations, it is time to seek support. Furthermore, prevention strategies can help protect the residual hearing you still left.