Utrata słuchu
Objawy

Utrata słuchu, dotykająca około 25% osób w wieku 65-74 lat i 50% powyżej 75 roku życia, manifestuje się trudnościami w rozumieniu mowy, szczególnie w hałaśliwym otoczeniu, przytłumieniem dźwięków, potrzebą zwiększania głośności urządzeń oraz szumami usznymi. Klasyfikacja według Amerykańskiego Stowarzyszenia Mowy, Języka i Słuchu obejmuje stopnie od łagodnej (25-40 dB) do głębokiej (>90 dB), z różnymi objawami i ograniczeniami funkcjonalnymi. Typy utraty słuchu to przewodzeniowa (odwracalna, związana z uchem zewnętrznym/środkowym), odbiorcza (sensoryczno-nerwowa, trwała, najczęściej presbycusis) oraz mieszana. Progresja może być stopniowa, fluktuująca lub nagła (SSHL – utrata ≥30 dB w 72 godziny), wymagająca pilnej interwencji. Czynniki ryzyka to wiek, ekspozycja na hałas, choroby autoimmunologiczne, genetyka i choroby współistniejące.

Objawy utraty słuchu

Utrata słuchu to częsty problem zdrowotny, który może rozwinąć się stopniowo lub pojawić się nagle. Jest to częściowa lub całkowita niezdolność do słyszenia dźwięków w jednym lub obu uszach. Według badań, problem ten dotyka około 25% osób w wieku od 65 do 74 lat, a odsetek ten wzrasta do około 50% wśród osób powyżej 75 roku życia12.

Wczesne objawy utraty słuchu

Utrata słuchu często postępuje stopniowo, przez co może być trudna do zauważenia we wczesnym stadium. Wiele osób nie zdaje sobie sprawy z pogorszenia swojego słuchu, dopóki objawy nie staną się wyraźne. Oto najczęstsze wczesne znaki ostrzegawcze12:

  • Trudności w rozumieniu mowy, szczególnie w hałaśliwym otoczeniu
  • Wrażenie, że dźwięki mowy i inne dźwięki są przytłumione
  • Częste proszenie innych o powtórzenie wypowiedzi
  • Potrzeba zwiększania głośności telewizora lub radia
  • Trudności w słyszeniu wysokich dźwięków, takich jak głosy kobiet i dzieci
  • Problemy ze słyszeniem niektórych spółgłosek (np. „s”, „f”, „sz”, „t”)
  • Wrażenie, że inni mówią niewyraźnie lub mamroczą
  • Szumy uszne (dzwonienie, brzęczenie lub syczenie w uszach)
  • Trudności w śledzeniu rozmowy, gdy mówi więcej niż jedna osoba

123

Progresja utraty słuchu

W większości przypadków utrata słuchu postępuje stopniowo, co oznacza, że pogarsza się z czasem. Tempo progresji może być różne w zależności od przyczyny i typu utraty słuchu1. Najczęściej występująca utrata słuchu związana z wiekiem (presbycusis) charakteryzuje się powolnym pogorszeniem słuchu w obu uszach. Początkowe objawy mogą być subtelne i niezauważalne, ale z czasem stają się coraz bardziej wyraźne1.

Progresywna utrata słuchu może przyjmować różne formy1:

  • Stopniowa progresja – najbardziej typowa, charakteryzująca się powolnym pogorszeniem słuchu w ciągu miesięcy lub lat
  • Fluktuująca progresja – słuch pogarsza się i poprawia, ale ogólna tendencja jest spadkowa
  • Nagła utrata słuchu – rzadsze zjawisko, definiowane jako utrata słuchu o co najmniej 30 decybeli w ciągu 72 godzin; wymaga natychmiastowej interwencji medycznej

123

Stopnie i typy utraty słuchu

Utratę słuchu klasyfikuje się według stopnia nasilenia, co pozwala lepiej zrozumieć, jak bardzo jest ona zaawansowana i jakie działania należy podjąć12.

Stopnie nasilenia utraty słuchu

Utrata słuchu jest klasyfikowana według stopnia nasilenia w zależności od tego, jak głośne muszą być dźwięki, aby osoba mogła je usłyszeć. Według Amerykańskiego Stowarzyszenia Mowy, Języka i Słuchu, wyróżnia się następujące stopnie utraty słuchu12:

  • Normalna – brak utraty słuchu
  • Nieznaczna – trudności w słyszeniu cichych dźwięków, ale rozmowy jeden na jeden są zazwyczaj zrozumiałe
  • Łagodna (25-40 dB) – problemy ze słyszeniem cichych dźwięków i śledzeniem rozmów, zwłaszcza gdy istnieje hałas w tle
  • Umiarkowana (41-55 dB) – trudności w słyszeniu normalnej mowy, częste proszenie o powtórzenie, problemy z rozmowami telefonicznymi
  • Umiarkowanie ciężka (56-70 dB) – trudności w słyszeniu normalnej mowy, potrzeba używania aparatów słuchowych
  • Ciężka (71-90 dB) – niemożność słyszenia normalnej mowy, konieczność używania silnych aparatów słuchowych lub implantów ślimakowych
  • Głęboka (powyżej 90 dB) – niemożność słyszenia większości dźwięków, nawet bardzo głośnych

1234

Każdy stopień utraty słuchu charakteryzuje się specyficznymi objawami i ograniczeniami, które wpływają na codzienne funkcjonowanie osoby dotkniętej tym problemem1.

Typy utraty słuchu

Utrata słuchu może być również sklasyfikowana według jej typu, co zależy od lokalizacji uszkodzenia w układzie słuchowym12:

  • Przewodzeniowa utrata słuchu – spowodowana problemami w uchu zewnętrznym lub środkowym, które uniemożliwiają dźwiękowi prawidłowe przejście do ucha wewnętrznego. Może być często leczona za pomocą leków lub zabiegu chirurgicznego.
  • Odbiorcza (sensoryczno-nerwowa) utrata słuchu – wynika z uszkodzenia ucha wewnętrznego, nerwu słuchowego lub mózgu. Jest to najczęstszy typ utraty słuchu, zwykle trwały i nieodwracalny. Występuje głównie u osób starszych jako część procesu starzenia się (presbycusis).
  • Mieszana utrata słuchu – kombinacja utraty słuchu przewodzeniowej i odbiorczej.

12

Utrata słuchu może również być jednostronna (dotycząca jednego ucha) lub obustronna (dotycząca obu uszu), a także może być stała lub tymczasowa1.

Szczegółowe objawy w zależności od stopnia utraty słuchu

Objawy utraty słuchu mogą różnić się w zależności od stopnia nasilenia problemu. Poniżej przedstawiono szczegółowe objawy charakterystyczne dla poszczególnych poziomów utraty słuchu12.

Łagodna utrata słuchu (25-40 dB)

Przy łagodnej utracie słuchu niektóre ciche dźwięki są trudne do usłyszenia. Objawy mogą obejmować12:

  • Trudności w słyszeniu cichszych głosów lub głosów dzieci
  • Łatwiejsze słyszenie spółgłosek niż samogłosek
  • Proszenie innych o powtórzenie wypowiedzi w celu lepszego zrozumienia
  • Uczucie, jakby słuchało się z palcami w uszach
  • Problemy z rozumieniem mowy w hałaśliwym otoczeniu
  • Trudności z rozpoznawaniem wysokich tonów

1

Umiarkowana utrata słuchu (41-55 dB)

Przy umiarkowanej utracie słuchu12:

  • Osoba nie może słyszeć większości mowy przy normalnym poziomie głośności
  • Słuch może nie zawsze poprawiać się, gdy aparaty słuchowe są podgłaszane
  • Trudność w śledzeniu rozmów telefonicznych
  • Znaczne trudności w rozumieniu mowy w hałaśliwym otoczeniu
  • Konieczność częstego proszenia innych o powtórzenie wypowiedzi
  • Potrzeba zwiększania głośności urządzeń elektronicznych do poziomów, które inni uważają za zbyt głośne

1

Umiarkowanie ciężka utrata słuchu (56-70 dB)

W przypadku umiarkowanie ciężkiej utraty słuchu osoba ma trudności z usłyszeniem większości dźwięków bez pomocy aparatów słuchowych. Objawy obejmują1:

  • Znaczące trudności w uczestniczeniu w rozmowach bez aparatów słuchowych
  • Niemożność słyszenia większości dźwięków w normalnych warunkach
  • Problemy z rozróżnianiem głosów w grupie rozmawiających osób
  • Wycofanie społeczne z powodu trudności komunikacyjnych
  • Zmęczenie po interakcjach społecznych z powodu wysiłku słuchowego

1

Ciężka utrata słuchu (71-90 dB)

Przy ciężkiej utracie słuchu11:

  • Osoba nie może słyszeć normalnej mowy w ogóle
  • Ma trudności z niektórymi głośnymi dźwiękami
  • Potrzebuje aparatów słuchowych lub implantów ślimakowych dla wszelkiej mowy
  • Nie zauważa większości głośnych dźwięków, takich jak płaczące dziecko w pobliżu
  • Zwykle polega na komunikacji wizualnej (czytanie z ruchu warg, język migowy)

1

Głęboka utrata słuchu (powyżej 90 dB)

Przy głębokiej utracie słuchu112:

  • Osoba może nie słyszeć głośnych dźwięków, takich jak silniki czy alarmy przeciwpożarowe, bez aparatów słuchowych
  • Mowa jest całkowicie niesłyszalna bez pomocy
  • Konieczne jest korzystanie z poważnych interwencji, takich jak implanty ślimakowe
  • Komunikacja opiera się głównie na języku migowym, czytaniu z ruchu warg lub pisaniu

1

Charakterystyczne cechy progresji utraty słuchu

Utrata słuchu może charakteryzować się różnymi wzorcami progresji, w zależności od przyczyny i typu. Oto najważniejsze cechy progresji utraty słuchu12:

Wzorce progresji

  • Stopniowa progresja – najczęstszy wzorzec, szczególnie w przypadku utraty słuchu związanej z wiekiem. Charakteryzuje się powolnym pogarszaniem się słuchu, które może być niezauważalne przez wiele lat. Typowo najpierw tracone są wysokie częstotliwości dźwięku1.
  • Asymetryczna progresja – utrata słuchu postępuje szybciej lub jest bardziej zaawansowana w jednym uchu niż w drugim. Może to wskazywać na określone schorzenia, takie jak nerwiaki nerwu słuchowego1.
  • Fluktuująca progresja – słuch pogarsza się i poprawia okresowo, ale ogólna tendencja jest spadkowa. Często występuje w chorobie Ménière’a1.
  • Nagła utrata słuchu – rzadszy wzorzec, charakteryzujący się nagłą utratą słuchu w ciągu 72 godzin. Wymaga natychmiastowej interwencji medycznej, ponieważ wczesne leczenie zwiększa szanse na powrót słuchu12.

Czynniki wpływające na progresję

Na tempo i wzorzec progresji utraty słuchu mogą wpływać różne czynniki12:

  • Wiek – utrata słuchu związana z wiekiem (presbycusis) zwykle zaczyna się w wieku 20-30 lat, ale staje się zauważalna dopiero w wieku 50-60 lat i postępuje z czasem1.
  • Ekspozycja na hałas – długotrwała lub powtarzająca się ekspozycja na głośne dźwięki może przyspieszyć utratę słuchu1.
  • Schorzenia autoimmunologiczne – choroby takie jak toczeń, reumatoidalne zapalenie stawów czy niedoczynność tarczycy mogą powodować postępującą utratę słuchu1.
  • Genetyka – niektóre osoby są genetycznie predysponowane do szybszej utraty słuchu1.
  • Choroby współistniejące – schorzenia takie jak cukrzyca, choroby sercowo-naczyniowe czy nadciśnienie mogą przyspieszać utratę słuchu1.

Typowe wzorce progresji w zależności od wieku

Progresja utraty słuchu może różnić się w zależności od wieku12:

  • Młodzi dorośli – utrata słuchu często zaczyna się od wysokich częstotliwości, zazwyczaj z powodu ekspozycji na hałas. Progresja może być powolna, ale z czasem obejmuje coraz szerszy zakres częstotliwości1.
  • Dorośli w średnim wieku – utrata słuchu staje się bardziej zauważalna, szczególnie w hałaśliwych środowiskach. Progresja zwykle przyspiesza w tym okresie życia1.
  • Osoby starsze – około 5% dorosłych w wieku 45-54 lat ma znaczącą utratę słuchu. Odsetek ten wzrasta do 10% dla osób w wieku 55-64 lat, 22% dla osób w wieku 65-74 lat i 55% dla osób w wieku 75 lat i starszych1.

Nagłe pogorszenie słuchu

Choć większość przypadków utraty słuchu rozwija się stopniowo, nagła utrata słuchu (ang. Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss, SSHL) to poważny stan wymagający natychmiastowej pomocy medycznej1.

Objawy nagłej utraty słuchu

Nagła utrata słuchu definiowana jest jako utrata co najmniej 30 decybeli słuchu w co najmniej trzech połączonych częstotliwościach w ciągu 72 godzin lub krócej. Jej objawy mogą obejmować123:

  • Nagłą utratę słuchu w jednym lub (rzadziej) obu uszach, często zauważaną po przebudzeniu
  • Uczucie zatkania lub ciśnienia w uchu
  • Szumy uszne (dzwonienie, brzęczenie, syczenie)
  • Zawroty głowy lub problemy z równowagą
  • Przytłumienie dźwięków
  • Trudności w lokalizacji źródła dźwięku

Nagła utrata słuchu może wynikać z różnych przyczyn, w tym infekcji wirusowych, problemów naczyniowych, chorób autoimmunologicznych lub idiopatycznych (nieznanych przyczyn). Szacuje się, że dotyka ona od 1 do 6 osób na 5000 rocznie, choć rzeczywista liczba może być wyższa, ponieważ wiele przypadków pozostaje niezdiagnozowanych12.

Znaczenie szybkiej interwencji

W przypadku nagłej utraty słuchu kluczowe jest szybkie działanie12:

  • Natychmiastowa pomoc medyczna powinna być poszukiwana w ciągu 24-48 godzin od wystąpienia objawów
  • Opóźnienie leczenia o więcej niż 2-4 tygodnie znacząco zmniejsza szanse na poprawę słuchu
  • Około połowa osób z nagłą utratą słuchu odzyskuje część lub całość słuchu spontanicznie, zwykle w ciągu 1-2 tygodni od wystąpienia
  • Wczesne leczenie (najczęściej sterydami) może zwiększyć szanse na powrót słuchu

Jeśli nagła utrata słuchu nie reaguje na leczenie lub jest ciężka, lekarz może zalecić stosowanie aparatów słuchowych lub implantów ślimakowych1.

Wpływ utraty słuchu na jakość życia

Utrata słuchu może znacząco wpływać na różne aspekty życia, prowadząc do licznych konsekwencji psychospołecznych i poznawczych12.

Konsekwencje psychospołeczne

Nieleczona utrata słuchu może prowadzić do123:

  • Izolacji społecznej – osoby z utratą słuchu często unikają sytuacji społecznych z powodu trudności w komunikacji, co prowadzi do wycofania i ograniczenia kontaktów międzyludzkich
  • Depresji – starsi dorośli z utratą słuchu częściej zgłaszają objawy depresji
  • Zmęczenia słuchowego – ciągły wysiłek związany z próbami słyszenia i rozumienia mowy może prowadzić do znacznego zmęczenia fizycznego i psychicznego
  • Frustracji i niepokoju – trudności komunikacyjne mogą prowadzić do frustracji, niepokoju i obniżonej samooceny
  • Pogorszenia relacji – problemy z komunikacją mogą obciążać relacje rodzinne i związki

12

Konsekwencje poznawcze

Utrata słuchu jest również powiązana z problemami poznawczymi12:

  • Zwiększone ryzyko demencji – badania wykazały związek między utratą słuchu a zwiększonym ryzykiem rozwoju demencji i choroby Alzheimera
  • Pogorszenie funkcji poznawczych – utrata słuchu może prowadzić do pogorszenia pamięci, uwagi i zdolności przetwarzania informacji
  • Zwiększone obciążenie poznawcze – mózg musi pracować ciężej, aby zrozumieć zniekształconą lub niepełną informację dźwiękową, co może prowadzić do przeciążenia poznawczego

1

Konsekwencje zawodowe i ekonomiczne

Utrata słuchu może również wpływać na życie zawodowe i sytuację ekonomiczną1:

  • Obniżona wydajność w pracy – trudności komunikacyjne mogą prowadzić do niższej wydajności i większej liczby błędów
  • Ograniczone możliwości zawodowe – utrata słuchu może ograniczać dostęp do pewnych zawodów lub awansu
  • Niższe zarobki – badania wykazały, że utrata słuchu może wpływać na potencjał zarobkowy
  • Zwiększone koszty opieki zdrowotnej – leczenie utraty słuchu i powiązanych problemów zdrowotnych generuje dodatkowe koszty

Wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie utraty słuchu może znacząco zmniejszyć te negatywne konsekwencje i poprawić jakość życia1.

Specyficzne objawy w różnych sytuacjach życiowych

Utrata słuchu może manifestować się w różny sposób w zależności od sytuacji. Oto charakterystyczne objawy w różnych kontekstach życiowych1:

Trudności w rozmowach

Osoby z utratą słuchu często doświadczają następujących trudności podczas rozmów12:

  • Wrażenie, że słyszą, ale nie rozumieją słów (szczególnie w hałaśliwym otoczeniu)
  • Trudności w śledzeniu rozmów, gdy mówi więcej niż jedna osoba
  • Częste proszenie o powtórzenie wypowiedzi
  • Niewłaściwe odpowiedzi na pytania z powodu nieprawidłowego zrozumienia
  • Problemy ze słyszeniem na telefonie
  • Mylenie podobnie brzmiących słów
  • Wycofywanie się z rozmów grupowych

13

Trudności w hałaśliwym otoczeniu

Hałaśliwe środowiska, takie jak restauracje, przyjęcia czy spotkania towarzyskie, stanowią szczególne wyzwanie dla osób z utratą słuchu12:

  • Znaczne trudności w rozróżnianiu mowy od hałasu tła
  • Niemożność śledzenia rozmów grupowych
  • Zwiększone zmęczenie z powodu wysiłku wkładanego w słuchanie
  • Tendencja do unikania hałaśliwych miejsc i wydarzeń społecznych
  • Niemożność lokalizacji źródła dźwięku w hałaśliwym otoczeniu

12

Problemy z mediami i urządzeniami elektronicznymi

Utrata słuchu często objawia się w interakcji z mediami i urządzeniami elektronicznymi12:

  • Potrzeba ustawiania wyższej głośności telewizora, radia lub innych urządzeń
  • Trudności w zrozumieniu dialogów filmowych lub programów telewizyjnych, nawet przy zwiększonej głośności
  • Problemy ze słyszeniem dzwonków telefonów, dzwonków do drzwi lub alarmów
  • Trudności w słyszeniu rozmów telefonicznych
  • Niemożność usłyszenia sygnałów dźwiękowych, takich jak kierunkowskazy w samochodzie czy sygnały urządzeń kuchennych

1

Zmiana percepcji dźwięków

Utrata słuchu może również prowadzić do zmian w percepcji dźwięków12:

  • Trudności w słyszeniu wysokich dźwięków, takich jak śpiew ptaków lub wysokie tony muzyczne
  • Problemy z rozróżnianiem spółgłosek, szczególnie „s”, „f”, „sz”, „ś”
  • Wrażenie, że dźwięki są zniekształcone lub przytłumione
  • Nadwrażliwość na niektóre dźwięki (rekrutacja), podczas gdy inne są słabo słyszalne
  • Szumy uszne (tinnitus) towarzyszące utracie słuchu

12

Rozpoznanie tych specyficznych objawów w różnych sytuacjach może pomóc we wczesnej identyfikacji utraty słuchu i podjęciu odpowiednich działań1.

Różnice w objawach w zależności od typu utraty słuchu

Różne typy utraty słuchu mogą charakteryzować się nieco odmiennymi objawami, co może pomóc w identyfikacji przyczyny problemu12.

Objawy odbiorczej (sensoryczno-nerwowej) utraty słuchu

Odbiorcza utrata słuchu, spowodowana uszkodzeniem ucha wewnętrznego lub nerwu słuchowego, charakteryzuje się następującymi objawami12:

  • Dźwięki wydają się nie tylko cichsze, ale również zniekształcone
  • Szczególne trudności w słyszeniu wysokich częstotliwości (głosy kobiet i dzieci, wysokie tony)
  • Trudności w rozumieniu mowy, nawet gdy jest wystarczająco głośna
  • Problemy z rozróżnianiem podobnych dźwięków (np. „s” od „sz”)
  • Szumy uszne (tinnitus)
  • Nadwrażliwość na niektóre dźwięki (rekrutacja)
  • Większe trudności w hałaśliwym otoczeniu niż w cichym

12

Odbiorcza utrata słuchu jest zwykle trwała i postępująca, a jej najczęstszą przyczyną jest starzenie się (presbycusis) lub ekspozycja na hałas1.

Objawy przewodzeniowej utraty słuchu

Przewodzeniowa utrata słuchu, spowodowana problemami w uchu zewnętrznym lub środkowym, charakteryzuje się następującymi objawami12:

  • Dźwięki wydają się cichsze, ale nie zniekształcone
  • Trudności w słyszeniu cichych dźwięków
  • Równomierna utrata słyszalności wszystkich częstotliwości (nieselektywna)
  • Uczucie zatkania lub ciśnienia w uchu
  • Możliwy ból ucha lub wydzielina z ucha
  • Często nagłe lub stopniowe pogorszenie słuchu
  • Lepsze słyszenie w hałaśliwym otoczeniu niż osoby z odbiorczą utratą słuchu

12

Przewodzeniowa utrata słuchu często jest odwracalna po leczeniu przyczyny (np. usunięciu woskowiny, leczeniu infekcji czy zabiegu chirurgicznym)1.

Objawy mieszanej utraty słuchu

Mieszana utrata słuchu, będąca kombinacją utraty słuchu przewodzeniowej i odbiorczej, może charakteryzować się objawami obu typów1:

  • Zmniejszona czułość słuchowa
  • Trudności w słyszeniu cichych dźwięków
  • Problemy z rozumieniem mowy, szczególnie w hałaśliwym otoczeniu
  • Szumy uszne, które mogą być przerywane lub stałe
  • Ból ucha lub uczucie ciśnienia w uchu
  • Zawroty głowy lub problemy z równowagą

12

Objawy jednostronnej utraty słuchu

Utrata słuchu dotycząca tylko jednego ucha (jednostronna) może powodować specyficzne objawy12:

  • Trudności w lokalizacji źródła dźwięku
  • Problemy ze słyszeniem w hałaśliwym otoczeniu, szczególnie gdy źródło dźwięku znajduje się po stronie ucha z utratą słuchu
  • Trudności w rozumieniu mowy, gdy rozmówca znajduje się po stronie ucha z utratą słuchu
  • Konieczność przekręcania głowy, aby lepiej słyszeć
  • Możliwe zawroty głowy lub problemy z równowagą

Nagła jednostronna utrata słuchu wymaga natychmiastowej interwencji medycznej, ponieważ może być objawem poważnego schorzenia12.

Wnioski

Utrata słuchu jest powszechnym problemem zdrowotnym, który może znacząco wpływać na jakość życia. Jej objawy mogą być subtelne i często rozwijają się stopniowo, co utrudnia wczesne rozpoznanie. Jednak wczesna identyfikacja i interwencja są kluczowe dla skutecznego zarządzania tym problemem12.

Główne objawy utraty słuchu obejmują trudności w rozumieniu mowy (szczególnie w hałaśliwym otoczeniu), wrażenie przytłumienia dźwięków, potrzebę zwiększania głośności urządzeń elektronicznych, problemy ze słyszeniem wysokich dźwięków oraz szumy uszne. Utrata słuchu może postępować różnymi tempami i wzorcami, w zależności od przyczyny i typu123.

Nieleczona utrata słuchu może prowadzić do licznych konsekwencji, w tym izolacji społecznej, depresji, pogorszenia funkcji poznawczych i obniżonej jakości życia. Dlatego ważne jest, aby rozpoznać objawy utraty słuchu i szukać profesjonalnej pomocy, gdy się pojawią12.

Regularne badania słuchu, ochrona przed nadmiernym hałasem i wczesna interwencja w przypadku pojawienia się objawów utraty słuchu są kluczowe dla zachowania zdrowia słuchowego. Współczesne technologie, takie jak aparaty słuchowe i implanty ślimakowe, mogą znacznie poprawić jakość życia osób z utratą słuchu12.

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Hearing loss – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hearing-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20373072
    Hearing loss that comes on little by little as you age, also known as presbycusis, is common. More than half the people in the United States older than age 75 have some age-related hearing loss. […] Symptoms of hearing loss may include: Muffling of speech and other sounds. Trouble understanding words, especially when in a crowd or a noisy place. Trouble hearing the letters of the alphabet that aren’t vowels. Often asking others to speak more slowly, clearly and loudly. Needing to turn up the volume of the television or radio. Staying clear of some social settings. Being bothered by background noise. Ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus. […] Talk to your health care provider if loss of hearing is causing you trouble. Age-related hearing loss happens little by little. So you may not notice it at first.
  • #1 Symptoms – Hearing Loss Association of America
    https://www.hearingloss.org/understanding-hearing-loss/symptoms/
    Hearing loss often starts and progresses gradually, making it easy to ignore. But even a mild level of hearing loss can have a big impact on your daily life, work, relationships and connections with others. […] If any of these sound familiar, you or a loved one may have hearing loss.
  • #1 Hearing Loss: Types, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17673-hearing-loss
    Hearing loss happens when something affects your hearing system. If you have hearing loss, you may have trouble understanding, following or participating in conversations. It may be hard for you to hear telephone conversations, to take part in online meetings or follow dialogue when you’re watching television. […] Most people lose their hearing gradually. They may not even notice that it’s happening. In general, you may be developing hearing loss if: You often ask people to repeat themselves. You have trouble following a conversation, especially when you’re talking on the telephone or in a noisy environment like a restaurant. You think people are mumbling. You can’t hear certain high-pitched sounds, like birds singing. You need to turn up the volume on your television, computer or tablet. You have tinnitus (ringing in your ears). Your ear hurts (earache). You feel as if there’s pressure or fluid inside your ear. You have balance problems or dizziness.
  • #1 Progressive hearing loss: Will my hearing loss get worse?
    https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53243-Will-my-hearing-loss-get-worse
    Progressive hearing loss is hearing loss that gets worse over time. […] Most progressive hearing loss is treatable, usually with hearing aids. […] Often, the damage is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time, slowly but surely, as the hair cells degrade and die. […] With sensorineural hearing loss, your inner ear, auditory nerve, or both are damaged, usually permanently. It does tend to get worse over time. […] The more loud noises you hear, the more damage, so this kind of loss builds up over time. […] A number of autoimmune diseases can cause progressive hearing loss, including autoimmune inner ear disorder, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. […] If you already have hearing loss, it’s important to protect the residual hearing you have left. This will at least slow the progression of hearing loss.
  • #1 Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis) | Cedars-Sinai
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/a/age-related-hearing-loss-presbycusis.html
    Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is the slow loss of hearing in both ears. Its a common problem linked to aging. About 1 in 3 adults between the ages of 65 and 74 have hearing loss. […] This hearing loss happens slowly. So some people are not aware of the change at first. Most often, it affects the ability to hear high-pitched noises, such as a phone ringing or a microwave beeping. The ability to hear low-pitched noises is often not affected. […] Each persons symptoms may vary. Some of the most common symptoms include: Other peoples speech sounds mumbled or slurred, Having trouble hearing high-pitched sounds, Having trouble understanding conversations, often when there is background noise, Men’s voices are easier to hear than women’s, Some sounds seem very loud and annoying, A ringing sound (tinnitus) in one or both ears.
  • #1 Insights into Hearing Loss Progression
    https://www.harthearing.com/blog/2024/3/16/insights-into-hearing-loss-progression
    Hearing loss is a common condition that can develop gradually over time or occur suddenly, impacting an individual’s ability to perceive sounds and communicate effectively. […] The rate of progression of hearing loss can vary depending on the type of hearing loss an individual experiences. […] The underlying causes of hearing loss can significantly impact its progression. […] Exposure to loud noise is a significant risk factor for hearing loss and can accelerate its progression. […] Lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, exercise, and overall health can also influence the progression of hearing loss. […] Regular monitoring of hearing health is essential for detecting changes in hearing function and assessing the progression of hearing loss over time. […] The rate of progression of hearing loss can vary depending on various factors, including the type of hearing loss, underlying causes, noise exposure, lifestyle factors, and individual health factors.
  • #1 Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL) | NIDCD
    https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/sudden-deafness
    Sudden sensorineural (inner ear) hearing loss (SSHL), commonly known as sudden deafness, is an unexplained, rapid loss of hearing either all at once or over a few days. […] People with sudden deafness may also notice one or more of these symptoms: a feeling of ear fullness, dizziness, and/or a ringing in their ears, such as tinnitus. […] Although about half of people with SSHL recover some or all their hearing spontaneously, usually within one to two weeks from onset, delaying SSHL diagnosis and treatment (when warranted) can decrease treatment effectiveness. […] Experts estimate that SSHL strikes between one and six people per 5,000 every year, but the actual number of new SSHL cases each year could be much higher because SSHL often goes undiagnosed. […] If you have sudden deafness symptoms, your doctor should rule out conductive hearing losshearing loss due to an obstruction in the ear, such as fluid or ear wax.
  • #1 Hearing Loss: Types, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17673-hearing-loss
    Many things can cause hearing loss. For example, short-term or sudden exposure to very loud noise like attending a loud concert can affect your hearing. […] If you have a hearing test, your audiologist will share test results and explain what they mean. Often, hearing loss is classified as the degree of loss. The degree of loss is how loud sounds need to be for you to hear them. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the degrees of loss are: Normal. Slight. Mild. Moderate. Moderately severe. Severe. Profound. […] That depends on your situation. Some hearing loss is temporary, like hearing loss that happens because you have a cold, swimmer’s ear, or there’s something stuck in your ear. Sensorineural and age-related hearing loss is usually permanent, but hearing aids or cochlear implants may restore most of your hearing.
  • #1 Understanding the 5 Stages of Hearing Loss: Jacksonville ENT Surgery: Otolaryngology
    https://www.jacksonvilleentsurgery.com/blog/understanding-the-5-stages-of-hearing-loss
    Have you noticed a need to turn up the volume louder than you used to on the television? Does it seem like the people around you arent enunciating or are mumbling more than they should? You could be struggling with hearing loss. […] One of the trickiest things about hearing loss is that the symptoms vary from person to person, and it doesnt occur all at once, making it challenging to know when it begins and when its time to seek help. […] Stage 1, or mild hearing loss, is diagnosed when the quietest sounds you can hear are between 25 and 34 decibels (dB). […] People with stage 1 hearing loss may have difficulty hearing soft consonant sounds in speech, but struggle less with sharp or loud vowel sounds. […] If youre in this stage of hearing loss, you probably have trouble following conversations from time to time, especially when theres a lot of background noise or in crowded situations.
  • #1 Deafness and hearing loss: Causes, symptoms, and treatments
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/249285
    A feeling of isolation is a common problem, which can sometimes lead to depression and loneliness. […] The severity of hearing impairment is categorized by how much louder volumes need to be set at before they can detect a sound. […] There are four levels of deafness or hearing impairment. […] Mild deafness or mild hearing impairment: The person can only detect sounds between 25 and 29 decibels (dB). […] Moderate deafness or moderate hearing impairment: The person can only detect sounds between 40 and 69 dB. […] Severe deafness: The person only hears sounds above 70 to 89 dB. […] Profound deafness: Anybody who cannot hear a sound below 90dB has profound deafness. Some people with profound deafness cannot hear anything at all, at any decibel level. Communication is carried out using sign language, lip-reading, or reading and writing.
  • #1 Conductive Hearing Loss: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/conductive-hearing-loss
    Conductive hearing loss symptoms can include: […] The outlook is generally good with treatment. Medication, hearing aids or surgery can improve or correct most cases of conductive hearing loss. […] Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have: Hearing loss that gets worse […] Conductive hearing loss can make life tough. Sounds you love like your favorite song or chirping birds outside may start to fade away. Its OK to feel upset, scared, mad or frustrated. But theres good news. Most of the time, treatment can correct conductive hearing loss. The quicker you find out whats causing it, the better chance you have of getting your hearing back. If you think you or your child might have conductive hearing loss, arrange a visit with your healthcare provider.
  • #1 Hearing Loss Symptoms | Starkey
    https://www.starkey.com/hearing-loss/symptoms
    There are three types of hearing loss including: sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss and mixed hearing loss. […] Most people lose at least some degree of their hearing as they age, and by the time they reach age 65 and older, one in three people has some type of hearing impairment. […] Hearing loss can occur at any time, at any age. […] In fact, most people with hearing loss (65 percent) are younger than age 65! […] Only 13 percent of physicians routinely screen for hearing loss. […] Since most people with hearing impairments hear just fine in quiet environments (like your doctor’s office), it can be very difficult for your physician to recognize this problem. […] Only a trained hearing professional can determine the severity of your hearing problem, whether or not you could benefit from a hearing aid, and which type would be best for you. […] You should make an appointment with a hearing professional like an audiologist, hearing aid specialist or ENT for an evaluation, consultation and hearing test.
  • #1 Hearing loss – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hearing_loss
    Hearing loss is generally measured by playing generated or recorded sounds, and determining whether the person can hear them. Hearing sensitivity varies according to the frequency of sounds. […] Hearing loss is categorized by severity, type, and configuration. Furthermore, a hearing loss may exist in only one ear (unilateral) or in both ears (bilateral). Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent, sudden or progressive.
  • #1 Hearing Loss Signs: In Beginning, Progression, Types
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/hearing-loss-signs-7570679
    Hearing loss is losing some or all hearing in one or both ears. Hearing loss can occur because of age, injury, or illness, or it can happen gradually or suddenly. Hearing loss can happen to people of all ages, from babies to seniors. […] Hearing loss can appear suddenly, such as after an injury that might cause symptoms like intense ringing in the ears or dizziness. Hearing can worsen over time with symptoms like increasing difficulty following conversations, increased volume on devices, and vertigo. […] For younger, middle-aged, and older adults, early signs of hearing loss can include: Hearing better in one ear, Trouble following conversations, including in loud environments and on the phone, Needing a high volume when using electronic devices, Having trouble hearing voices clearly, Difficulty hearing higher voices and high-pitched sounds, Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ears), Dizziness or feeling out of balance, Pressure in the ear.
  • #1 Hearing Loss Signs: In Beginning, Progression, Types
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/hearing-loss-signs-7570679
    There are four degrees of hearing loss with varying symptoms. […] Mild hearing loss is when some soft sounds are difficult to hear. Symptoms might include: Difficulty hearing softer voices or children, Finding it easier to listen to consonant sounds rather than vowel sounds, Asking others to repeat themselves so you can understand them better, Feeling like trying to hear with fingers in your ear. […] Moderate hearing loss is when: A person cannot hear most speech at normal levels. Hearing might not always improve when hearing aids are turned up. […] Severe hearing loss: A person with severe hearing loss cannot hear normal speech, has difficulty with some loud noises, and needs hearing aids or cochlear implants for all speech. […] Profound hearing loss is when: A person might not hear loud noises, like engines and fire alarms, without hearing aids. Speech is completely inaudible without help.
  • #1 Mild Hearing Loss: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments 
    https://www.audibel.com/hearing-loss-treatment/mild-hearing-loss-overview/
    An estimated 25.4 million people in the United States have mild hearing loss. Without treatment, this common condition can have a significant impact on your quality of life. […] Mild hearing loss is consistent with having difficulty understanding quiet conversations, not hearing soft water dripping, and having difficulty following conversations when there is background noise. […] Learning how to spot the signs and symptoms of mild hearing loss is the first step to taking control of your hearing health. The following is a list of some of the most common symptoms of mild hearing loss: Difficulty following conversations in noisy environments; Frequently asking people to repeat themselves; Frequently missing a word or two in a sentence, causing difficulty understanding speech; Increased reliance on visual cues for understanding speech; More frequent need for increased audio volumes; People sitting or standing next to you report hearing things you don’t.
  • #1 Understanding the 5 Stages of Hearing Loss: Jacksonville ENT Surgery: Otolaryngology
    https://www.jacksonvilleentsurgery.com/blog/understanding-the-5-stages-of-hearing-loss
    Stage 2, or moderate hearing loss, is diagnosed when the quietest sounds you can hear are between 35 and 49 dB. This is typically the stage in which we recommend beginning hearing aids as the hearing loss is usually significant enough to impact daily life. […] Moderate hearing loss makes it difficult to hear in many situations and affects your ability to participate fully in most conversations, and you may struggle to hear parts of telephone conversations. […] When the quietest sounds you can hear are between 50 and 64 dB, the diagnosis is stage 3, or moderately severe hearing loss. Once youve reached this stage of hearing loss, its difficult to hear most sounds without the assistance of hearing aids. […] People with stage 3 hearing loss find it very difficult to participate in conversational speech, and probably cant hear loud sounds, even when theyre nearby, like a dog barking or the vacuum cleaner running.
  • #1 Hearing Loss Signs: In Beginning, Progression, Types
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/hearing-loss-signs-7570679
    In addition to obvious symptoms, there are other signs that hearing loss is getting worse. […] Symptoms of worsening hearing loss in older adults include: Feeling depressed or withdrawn because of difficulty understanding others, Cognitive decline, which can be caused by hearing loss, according to some studies, Being judged as confused or uncooperative because of hearing issues, Fatigue from attempting to listen all day or in social situations, Increased difficulty driving, or falling more often. […] Hearing loss does not have to occur in both ears to require attention or help. Signs of partial hearing loss include: Loss of hearing in only one ear or different hearing levels in each ear, Being able to hear some sounds but not others, Difficulty hearing in crowded spaces. […] When hearing loss is worsening, a person might feel depressed or isolated, show signs of cognitive decline that might be related to hearing issues, or have an increased risk of accidents or falls.
  • #1 Understanding the 5 Stages of Hearing Loss: Jacksonville ENT Surgery: Otolaryngology
    https://www.jacksonvilleentsurgery.com/blog/understanding-the-5-stages-of-hearing-loss
    Severe, or stage 4, hearing loss is the diagnosis when the quietest sounds you can detect fall between 65 and 79 dB. With severe hearing loss, you need strong hearing aids to navigate daily life since this stage is considered very hard of hearing. […] With stage 4 hearing loss, you cannot hear conversational speech at all, and youll likely struggle to hear loud speech. Most loud sounds, such as a baby near you, go unnoticed. […] Stage 5, or profound hearing loss, occurs when the quietest sound you can hear is 80 dB or higher. Hearing loss at this level usually requires powerful hearing aids or implants to help you hear well. […] When youre in stage 4 (severe) or stage 5 (profound), you may notice that you rely on nonaural cues, like lip-reading, sign language, or a combination of methods, to communicate with others.
  • #1 Symptoms of Hearing Loss & Degree of Hearing Loss
    https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hearing-loss-causes-symptoms-treatment
    Hearing Loss Symptoms […] In many cases, hearing fades so slowly you don’t notice it. You may think people are mumbling more, your spouse needs to speak up, or you need a better phone. As long as some sound still comes in, you could assume your hearing is fine. But you may become more and more cut off from the world of speech and sounds. […] Doctors classify hearing loss by degrees. […] Mild hearing loss: One-on-one conversations are fine, but it’s hard to catch every word when there’s background noise. […] […] Moderate hearing loss: You often need to ask people to repeat themselves during conversations in person and on the phone. […] […] Severe hearing loss: Following a conversation is almost impossible unless you have a hearing aid. […] […] Profound hearing loss: You can’t hear other people speaking unless they’re extremely loud. You can’t understand what they’re saying without a hearing aid or cochlear implant.
  • #1 What Are the Early Signs of Hearing Loss?
    https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/hearing-loss-signs
    Changes in hearing are common as people get older. But, like going gray, the shift rarely happens overnight. Think of how a persons first silver strands may only show in a certain light. The start of an age-related hearing problem can be just as subtle. […] People with untreated hearing loss are more likely to be depressed, feel isolated, and have memory problems later on. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, talk to your doctor or an audiologist about getting a hearing test. […] When aging takes a toll on your cochlea, the inner ear organ that helps you hear, the cells that detect high-pitched sounds are usually the first to fail. This can make it harder to understand anyone with a high-pitched voice, like children and women. […] If you have trouble hearing the high tones, you will hear the noise better than the speech of people around you. Age-related changes in how the brain processes sound can also make it harder to ignore background noise.
  • #1 Hearing loss progression concerning? – Hearing Loss – Hearing Aid Forum – Active Hearing Loss Community
    https://forum.hearingtracker.com/t/hearing-loss-progression-concerning/83104
    Hearing loss progression concerning? […] Im only 48 but have been dealing with declining asymmetrical hearing loss for the past 5 years. […] If I continue to lose 5-15DB of hearing a year, I will have severe hearing loss by 55. […] Im still trying to find a root cause so I can slow or stop the progression. […] Its very likely there is no cause, and no stopping the progression. […] I went from normal hearing, to a slight loss in my thirties, which progressively became worse, to almost complete deafness by my fifties. […] In the last year Ive started experiencing similar symptoms in my left ear as I did 5 years ago in my right. […] Im fearful my left ear is going to follow a similar pattern as my right. […] I have seen numerous ENTs, MRIs done etc and nothing can be found to explain. […] Ive been told by all hearing doctors Ive met that it should plateau but this has yet to happen.
  • #1 Hearing Problems. Common hearing problems; Information
    https://patient.info/ears-nose-throat-mouth/hearing-problems
    Hearing loss is common. It can be very distressing, particularly if it is getting worse or if it affects both ears. […] Everyone’s hearing gets worse as they get older. However, there are many types of hearing loss and not all are restricted to older people. […] Damage to any part of the ear can cause hearing loss. […] If there is a problem in the ear canal or the middle ear, this causes what is known as a conductive hearing loss. […] If the inner ear organ of hearing, the cochlea, or the hearing nerve is not working properly this causes a sensorineural hearing loss. […] Sensorineural hearing losses are usually permanent. […] The most common cause of hearing loss is age-related. Most people over the age of 60 develop hearing loss to some degree. […] Loud noise damages the cochlea and can result in permanent hearing loss and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). […] The cochlea can be damaged by a severe head injury. […] Mnire’s disease causes attacks of vertigo, tinnitus and hearing loss. […] If you experience sudden loss of hearing in one or both ears, you should seek urgent medical attention via your GP as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.
  • #1 Hearing loss – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hearing-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20373072
    Causes of hearing loss include: Damage to the inner ear. Aging and loud noise can cause wear and tear on the hairs or nerve cells in the cochlea that send sound signals to the brain. Damaged or missing hairs or nerve cells don’t send electrical signals well. This causes hearing loss. Higher pitched tones may seem muffled. It may be hard to pick out words against background noise. […] Hearing loss can make life less pleasant. Older adults with hearing loss often report being depressed. Because hearing loss can make it harder to talk with others, some people with hearing loss feel cut off from others. Hearing loss is also linked to loss of thinking skills, known as cognitive impairment. […] Age-related hearing loss is called 'presbycusis.’ The older you get, the more wear and tear you have on your ears says Dr. Gayla Poling. That’s when we start noticing age-related hearing loss.
  • #1 Hearing Loss – Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/hearing-loss/hearing-loss
    Hearing deficits in early childhood can result in lifelong impairments in receptive and expressive language skills. The severity of the impairment is determined by the age at which the hearing loss occurred, the nature of the loss (its duration, the frequencies affected, and the degree), and the susceptibilities of the individual child (eg, coexisting visual impairment, intellectual disability, primary language deficits, inadequate linguistic environment). Children who have other sensory, linguistic, or cognitive deficiencies are affected most severely. […] Hearing loss can be progressive or sudden. Aging, together with noise exposure and genetic factors, is a common risk factor for progressive decrease in hearing. Age-related hearing loss is termed presbycusis. Presbycusis is due to a combination of sensory cell (hair cell) and neuronal loss. Research also strongly suggests that early noise exposure accelerates age-related hearing loss. Higher frequencies are more affected than lower frequencies in age-related hearing loss.
  • #1 Hearing loss – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hearing_loss
    Hearing loss is an increasing concern especially in aging populations. The prevalence of hearing loss increases about two-fold for each decade increase in age after age 40. […] Hearing loss can contribute to decrease in health-related quality of life, increase in social isolation and decline in social engagement, which are all risk factors for increased risk of developing depression symptoms. […] Hearing loss has multiple causes, including ageing, genetics, perinatal problems and acquired causes like noise and disease. […] There is a progressive loss of ability to hear high frequencies with aging known as presbycusis. For men, this can start as early as 25 and women at 30. […] Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), also known as acoustic trauma, typically manifests as elevated hearing thresholds (i.e. less sensitivity or muting). Noise exposure is the cause of approximately half of all cases of hearing loss, causing some degree of problems in 5% of the population globally.
  • #1 Hearing Loss – Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/hearing-loss/hearing-loss
    Older adults typically experience a progressive decrease in hearing (presbycusis). In the United States, 22% of people ages 65 to 74 years and 55% of those who are 75 and older have disabling hearing loss. Although hearing loss is common with aging, hearing loss in older adults should be evaluated and not ascribed simply to aging; older patients may have a tumor, a neurologic or autoimmune or systemic rheumatic disorder, or an easily correctable conductive hearing loss.
  • #1 Hearing Loss – Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/hearing-loss/hearing-loss
    Worldwide, about half a billion people (almost 8% of the world’s population) have hearing loss. Approximately 15% of American adults (37.5 million) ages 18 and over report some trouble hearing. About 2 to 3 out of every 1,000 children in the United States are born with a detectable level of hearing loss in one or both ears. During childhood and adolescence, the prevalence of moderate to severe hearing loss increases to 6 out of 1,000. Adolescents are at risk from excessive exposure to noise, head trauma, or both. Older adults typically experience a progressive decrease in hearing (presbycusis), which is directly related to a combination of aging, noise exposure, and genetic factors. Approximately 5% of adults ages 45 to 54 have disabling hearing loss. The rate increases to 10% for adults ages 55 to 64 years. Approximately 22% of those ages 65 to 74 and 55% of those who are 75 years and older have disabling hearing loss.
  • #1 Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL) | NIDCD
    https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/sudden-deafness
    One sign of SSHL could be the loss of at least 30 decibels (decibels are a measure of sound intensity) in three connected frequencies within 72 hours. […] Treatment that is delayed for more than two to four weeks is less likely to reverse or reduce permanent hearing loss. […] If your hearing loss is severe, does not respond to treatment, and/or happens in both ears, your doctor may recommend that you use hearing aids (to amplify sound) or even receive cochlear implants (to directly stimulate the auditory connections in the ear that go to the brain).
  • #1 Hearing Loss Signs & Symptoms | Rush
    https://www.rush.edu/conditions/hearing-loss
    Hearing loss affects all facets of your life, including your ability to connect easily with others. Hearing loss can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. It can affect one ear or both ears. […] By age 60, nearly one in three adults experience signs of hearing loss. About half of all adults in their 70s and older have some type of hearing loss. […] Hearing loss can be so gradual that you may not even realize how bad your hearing has become. […] For older adults, untreated hearing loss is known to be related to a decline in social, mental and cognitive function. […] Signs of hearing loss in adults may include one or more of the following: Hearing muffled or muted speech, Difficulty understanding conversations when in noisy spaces, such as restaurants, Having tinnitus, a constant or sporadic sound in one or both ears, such as ringing, buzzing, roaring or hissing, Feeling of pressure in one or both ears, Needing to turn the volume up high on the TV or other devices.
  • #1 Hearing loss – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hearing_loss
    Hearing loss is a partial or total inability to hear. Hearing loss may be present at birth or acquired at any time afterwards. Hearing loss may occur in one or both ears. In children, hearing problems can affect the ability to acquire spoken language, and in adults it can create difficulties with social interaction and at work. Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. Hearing loss related to age usually affects both ears and is due to cochlear hair cell loss. In some people, particularly older people, hearing loss can result in loneliness. […] Hearing loss can be categorized as mild (25 to 40 dB), moderate (41 to 55 dB), moderate-severe (56 to 70 dB), severe (71 to 90 dB), or profound (greater than 90 dB). […] Hearing loss is associated with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The risk increases with the hearing loss degree.
  • #1 Hearing and Balance Symptoms and Conditions – American Academy of Audiology
    https://www.audiology.org/consumers-and-patients/hearing-and-balance/
    Hearing loss may cause short- and long-term symptoms, such as migraine, ringing in the ear, and fatigue, and can be related to several other conditions such as depression, dementia, and diabetes, to name a few. […] When hearing loss is present, the brain has to compensate for the loss and work harder than before to process the same information, causing stress on the brain and finally fatigue. […] Hidden hearing loss describes hearing loss that cannot be measured by standard hearing tests, even though patients report difficulty hearing, especially in background noise. […] Approximately 40 million American adults may have hearing loss resulting from noise exposure. Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells found in the inner ear. Once damaged, our hair cells cannot grow back, which results in permanent hearing loss.
  • #1 Recognizing Early Symptoms of Hearing Loss | Beltone
    https://www.beltone.com/en-us/hear-from-the-experts/recognizing-early-symptoms-of-hearing-loss
    If you notice you’re saying, „Pardon?” more often than before, it could be a sign that your hearing isn’t as sharp as it used to be. […] If you find yourself feeling worn out after social events, it could be a sign that hearing loss is impacting your energy levels. […] Hearing loss has been shown to affect income earning potential, as struggling to hear can be mentally exhausting leading to mistakes and diminished engagement.
  • #1 Signs, Symptoms and Steps – Hearing Loss Association of America
    https://www.hearingloss.org/understanding-hearing-loss/hearing-loss-101/signs-symptoms-and-steps/
    Hearing loss is a growing public health crisis affecting people of all ages with many more at risk. It can be sudden or gradual, making it easy to miss or ignore. […] Signs you or your loved one may have hearing loss: Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. Thinking that people are mumbling. Frequently asking others to repeat themselves. Family or friends complain that you ask them to repeat often. Turning up the volume on the television or radio. Trouble understanding phone calls. Withdrawal from conversations and social situations. Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears). […] Even a mild hearing loss can impact daily life, so take Steps for Success as soon as possible. […] If you experience any of the following conditions, seek immediate medical attention: Sudden hearing loss, especially in one ear. Sudden ringing or buzzing in the ear. Ear pain, drainage or dizziness. […] Even a mild hearing loss can affect cognition, employment and relationships.
  • #1 Hearing loss symptoms: Signs of hearing impairment
    https://www.healthyhearing.com/help/hearing-loss/symptoms
    The symptoms of hearing loss depend on the type of hearing loss you have and the severity. Both volume and clarity of sound will be affected. […] A person with mild hearing loss in both ears, for example, experiences sound differently than a person with a profound hearing loss in just one ear. […] A sense that you can hear but not understand is a common symptom of hearing loss. […] You may experience all or just a few of these scenarios: Friends or family say you turn the television or radio up too loud; You struggle to understand speech, especially in noisy environments; You have difficulty hearing people on the phone; A feeling that you can hear, but not understand; You are not sure where sound is coming from, known as localization; You often ask people to repeat themselves; You’re dependent on a spouse or a loved one to help you hear; You find yourself avoiding social situations; You feel exhaustion after attending social events, known as listening fatigue; You notice tinnitus, or ringing in the ears; Paradoxically, some sounds seem too loud, known as „recruitment.”
  • #1 Hearing loss Information | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/symptoms/hearing-loss
    Hearing loss is being partly or totally unable to hear sound in one or both ears. […] Symptoms of hearing loss may include: Certain sounds seem overly loud in one ear, Difficulty following conversations when two or more people are talking, Difficulty hearing in noisy areas, Trouble telling high-pitched sounds (such as „s” or „th”) from one another, Less trouble hearing men’s voices than women’s voices, Hearing voices as mumbled or slurred. […] Associated symptoms may include: Feeling of being off-balance or dizzy (more common with Ménière disease and acoustic neuroma), Feeling of pressure in the ear (usually due to fluid behind the eardrum), Ringing or buzzing sound in the ears (tinnitus). […] Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when the tiny hair cells (nerve endings) that detect sound in the inner ear are injured, diseased, do not work correctly, or have died. This type of hearing loss often cannot be reversed.
  • #1 Hearing Loss Symptoms | Starkey
    https://www.starkey.com/hearing-loss/symptoms
    The signs of hearing loss are more obvious than you think. […] Here are ways to tell if you or someone you love might have hearing loss. […] If you find yourself saying what? all the time, or you need to be looking at someone to hear what theyre saying (by also reading their lips), your hearing might be fading. […] When you cant have a conversation because your TV is too loud, its time to get a hearing test. […] This is one of the first challenges people with hearing loss encounter: tracking what someone else is saying in a noise-filled place like a restaurant. […] High-frequency hearing loss is very common so its to be expected that women and children’s voices would be tough to hear. […] A classic complaint of people who have hearing loss is that others dont speak clearly. If you find yourself thinking people are mumbling and hard to understand, that may be a symptom of hearing loss.
  • #1 Hearing Loss Symptoms | Starkey
    https://www.starkeycanada.ca/hearing-loss/symptoms
    The signs of hearing loss are more obvious than you think. […] Here are ways to tell if you or someone you love might have hearing loss. […] If you find yourself saying what? all the time, or you need to be looking at someone to hear what theyre saying (by also reading their lips), your hearing might be fading. […] When you cant have a conversation because your TV is too loud, its time to get a hearing test. […] This is one of the first challenges people with hearing loss encounter: tracking what someone else is saying in a noise-filled place like a restaurant. […] High-frequency hearing loss is very common so its to be expected that women and children’s voices would be tough to hear. […] A classic complaint of people who have hearing loss is that others dont speak clearly. If you find yourself thinking people are mumbling and hard to understand, that may be a symptom of hearing loss.
  • #1 Signs and symptoms of hearing loss | HearingLife Canada
    https://www.hearinglife.ca/hearing-loss/signs
    Difficulty locating sounds can be another sign of hearing loss. […] A persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears (called tinnitus) can be linked to hearing loss. […] If you find yourself constantly increasing the volume to understand dialogue, it could be a sign that your hearing has changed. […] Recognizing these signs early can make a big difference. […] Since hearing loss occurs gradually, it may be difficult to notice when your hearing begins to decline. […] In many cases, friends and family may notice it before you do. […] Hearing loss can increase over time if left untreated. […] It is therefore important to seek treatment as soon as you recognize any early signs of hearing loss. […] The most common type of hearing loss is called sensorineural hearing loss, and it is mainly caused by the natural aging process and/or extensive exposure to loud sounds.
  • #1
    https://www.oticon.global/hearing-aid-users/hearing-loss/understand-hearing-loss/what-is-hearing-loss
    1 in 6 adults experiencesome degree of hearing loss. […] Hearing loss can make certain syllables and sounds harder to hear. For example, high-pitched consonants like f, s and t are easily drowned out by louder, low-pitched vowels like a, o and u. This results in a person with hearing loss complaining that they can hear others are talking, but not what they are saying. […] If you can answer YES to one or more of these questions you might have hearing loss. […] Age-related hearing loss is caused by daily life-long wear and tear of the hearing system, and the most common symptoms are trouble hearing soft voices, as well as trouble hearing speech when background noise is present. […] Untreated hearing loss can cause you to withdraw from socialising because conversations take so much more mental energy. Left untreated, hearing loss can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. […] My hearing loss has decreased my quality of life. […] It is important to seek help if you experience signs of hearing loss in yourself or a loved one.
  • #1 Hearing loss symptoms: Signs of hearing impairment
    https://www.healthyhearing.com/help/hearing-loss/symptoms
    Sensorineural hearing loss is usually gradual—you don’t wake up overnight not being able to hear. Instead, you slowly lose the ability to hear. Both how loudly (volume) and how clearly (clarity) you perceive sound are affected. […] You might also experience a phenomenon known as recruitment, which causes some louder sounds to be uncomfortable to listen to. […] Sensorineural hearing loss can affect all ranges of hearing, including the examples below. Some people may struggle to hear both low-pitched and high-pitched sounds, while others may only struggle with one range. […] In adults, when it does occur, it tends to develop much faster than sensorineural hearing loss, and depending on the cause, may be reversible. The symptoms will be similar to general hearing loss symptoms, just occurring at a faster rate.
  • #1 How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Hearing Loss
    https://www.audibel.com/hearing-loss-treatment/recognizing-hearing-loss-signs/
    Some types of hearing loss can also cause dizziness or affect your balance. […] Sometimes, it’s the people around you who notice your hearing loss before you do, or they are the first to voice this suspicion. […] Knowing the signs and symptoms of hearing loss early on is important. […] If you have identified one or more signs that your hearing has diminished, the best next step is to schedule a hearing exam.
  • #1 Sensorineural deafness: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003291.htm
    Sensorineural deafness is a type of hearing loss. It occurs from damage to the inner ear, the place of origin of the nerve that runs from the ear to the brain (auditory nerve), or damage to the brain itself. […] Symptoms may include: Some sounds seem overly loud in one ear. You have problems following conversations when two or more people are talking. You have problems hearing in noisy areas. It is easier to hear men’s voices than women’s voices. It is hard to tell high-pitched sounds (such as „s” or „th”) from one another. Other people’s voices sound mumbled or slurred. You have problems hearing when there is background noise. […] Associated symptoms may include: Feeling of being off-balance or dizzy (more common with Meniere disease and acoustic neuromas) Ringing or buzzing sound in the ears (tinnitus)
  • #1 Hearing Loss Symptoms | Starkey
    https://www.starkeymea.com/hearing-loss/symptoms
    Many people are unfamiliar with research linking hearing loss to falls, depression, social isolation and dementia. […] Hearing loss can occur at any time, at any age. […] Only 13 percent of physicians routinely screen for hearing loss. […] Only a trained hearing professional can determine the severity of your hearing problem, whether or not you could benefit from a hearing aid, and which type would be best for you.
  • #1 Hearing and Balance Symptoms and Conditions – American Academy of Audiology
    https://www.audiology.org/consumers-and-patients/hearing-and-balance/
    Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when tiny hair cells within the inner ear (the cochlea) are damaged. Sensorineural hearing loss is permanent and, in most cases, there are no medical or surgical treatment options. Hearing aids are the primary treatment for sensorineural hearing loss. In some situations, such as when hearing aids have not been beneficial for particular patients with severe and profound sensorineural hearing loss, these people may benefit from cochlear implantation. […] Hearing loss that affects only one ear is known as unilateral hearing loss (UHL). This hearing loss can range in degree from mild to profound. Occasionally, unilateral hearing loss is referred to as minimal hearing loss, as the presence of one normal hearing ear allows for minimal effects on speech and language development; however, it should be noted that even when hearing loss is only in one ear, it can have significant impacts on a persons day-to-day life.
  • #1 Hearing Loss – La Crosse – Mayo Clinic Health System
    https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/locations/la-crosse/services-and-treatments/otorhinolaryngology/ear-conditions-and-treatment/hearing-loss
    Gradual buildup of earwax. Earwax can block the ear canal and prevent conduction of sound waves. Earwax removal can help restore your hearing. […] Ruptured eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation). Loud blasts of noise, sudden changes in pressure, poking your eardrum with an object and infection can cause your eardrum to rupture and affect your hearing. […] Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your hearing loss. Options include: […] Cochlear implants. If you have more severe hearing loss and gain limited benefit from conventional hearing aids, then a cochlear implant may be an option. […] Hearing aids. If your hearing loss is due to damage to your inner ear, a hearing aid can be helpful. […] Removing wax blockage. Earwax blockage is a reversible cause of hearing loss. […] Surgical procedures. Some types of hearing loss can be treated with surgery, including abnormalities of the eardrum or bones of hearing.
  • #1 Mixed Hearing Loss: Signs, Causes & Treatment | Baptist Health
    https://www.baptisthealth.com/care-services/conditions-treatments/mixed-hearing-loss
    Mixed hearing loss is trouble hearing in both the middle or outer ear known as conductive hearing loss and the inner ear known as sensorineural hearing loss. The primary symptoms of mixed hearing loss include difficulty hearing soft sounds and trouble understanding speech, particularly in noisy environments. […] Common symptoms of mixed hearing loss include: Decreased hearing sensitivity Difficulty hearing soft sounds or needing to turn up the volume on electronic devices. […] Difficulty understanding speech Having a hard time making out what people are saying, especially when there’s a lot of background noise or when several individuals are speaking at the same time. […] Tinnitus You may hear sounds in the ear, which can be intermittent or constant. The sounds usually come in the form of ringing, humming, or hissing noises.
  • #1 Mixed Hearing Loss: Signs, Causes & Treatment | Baptist Health
    https://www.baptisthealth.com/care-services/conditions-treatments/mixed-hearing-loss
    Ear pain or pressure If you feel pain or fullness in your ear, it could be a sign of a problem in your outer or middle ear. […] As you get older, it is common for your hearing to gradually become worse. This is called presbycusis and it often causes sensorineural hearing loss. […] Hearing loss can happen if you are around loud sounds for a long time, or if you hear a loud noise suddenly. This can damage the tiny hair cells inside the ear that help us hear. […] Diagnosing mixed hearing loss involves a thorough evaluation by an audiologist or otolaryngologist. […] The approach your doctor takes to treating your mixed hearing loss is determined by the root cause and the extent of your condition. […] Mixed hearing loss treatment options include: Hearing aids These devices amplify sounds, making it easier for individuals with mixed hearing loss to hear and understand speech.
  • #1
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/deafness-and-hearing-loss
    Hard of hearing refers to people with hearing loss ranging from mild to severe. […] Deaf people mostly have profound hearing loss, which implies very little or no hearing. […] When unaddressed, hearing loss impacts many aspects of life at individual level: limitations in communication and speech, adversely affected cognition, social isolation, loneliness and stigma, impact on society and economy, effects on years lived with disability (YDLs) and disability adjusted life years (DALYs), limitations in access to education and employment. […] Prevention of hearing loss is essential throughout the life course, from prenatal and perinatal periods to older age. In children, nearly 60% of hearing loss is due to avoidable causes that can be prevented through implementation of public health measures.
  • #1
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/deafness-and-hearing-loss
    Early identification of hearing loss and ear diseases is key to effective management. […] Once hearing loss is identified, it is essential that it is addressed as early as possible and in an appropriate manner, to mitigate any adverse impact. […] Rehabilitation helps people with hearing loss to function at their optimum, which means they can be as independent as possible in everyday activities. Specifically, rehabilitation helps them to participate in education, work, recreation and meaningful roles, for example in their families or communities, throughout their lives.
  • #2 Age-Related Hearing Loss: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment
    https://www.healthline.com/health/age-related-hearing-loss
    Age-related hearing loss is also known as presbycusis. Although age-related hearing loss is not a life threatening condition, it can have a significant impact on your quality of life if left untreated. […] Hearing loss due to aging is a common condition that impacts many older adults. About one in three adults between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some degree of hearing loss, and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. […] Symptoms of age-related hearing loss typically begin with an inability to hear high-pitched sounds. You may notice that you have difficulty hearing the voices of women or children. You may also have difficulty hearing background noises or hearing others speak clearly. […] Age-related hearing loss is a progressive condition. This means it gets worse over time. If you lose your hearing, it will be permanent. Even though hearing loss gets worse over time, using assistive devices such as hearing aids can improve your quality of life. […] Seek prompt care from a healthcare professional if you develop symptoms of age-related hearing loss. As your hearing loss increases, you’re more likely to lose your ability to understand speech. However, you may keep this ability or minimize the loss if you seek early treatment.
  • #2 Hearing loss – prevention, signs, diagnosis and treatment | healthdirect
    https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hearing-loss
    If you have a sudden loss of hearing, go to your local emergency department. […] Hearing loss is usually permanent. Treatment involves improving the hearing you have. […] Most people experience some degree of hearing loss as they get older. […] Protecting your hearing is vital to prevent any hearing loss from getting worse. […] The first signs of hearing loss can be hard to notice because they usually come on gradually. They might include: having trouble hearing in noisy places, having trouble hearing people on the phone or if they’re not facing you, often asking people to repeat themselves, hearing sounds as muffled, as though people are mumbling, needing to have the TV up louder than other people, often missing your phone or the doorbell ringing, hearing buzzing or ringing in your ears, avoiding situations because you have trouble hearing.
  • #2 Hearing loss
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hearing-loss/
    Hearing loss is common, particularly as you get older. See a GP if you have problems with your hearing. It could be caused by something that can be easily treated. […] Common signs include: difficulty hearing other people clearly and misunderstanding what they say, especially in noisy places; asking people to repeat themselves; listening to music or watching TV with the volume higher than other people need; difficulty hearing on the phone; finding it hard to keep up with a conversation; feeling tired or stressed from having to concentrate while listening. […] Hearing loss can affect a child’s speech development and progress at school. […] Your symptoms may give you an idea what could be causing it. But do not self-diagnose, see a GP for advice. […] Common causes of hearing loss and related symptoms. Symptoms Possible cause Gradual hearing loss in both ears Aging or damage from loud noise over many years.
  • #2 Sudden Hearing Loss – Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/hearing-loss-and-deafness/sudden-hearing-loss
    Sudden hearing loss is moderate to severe hearing loss that develops over about 72 hours or is noticed on awakening. Such hearing loss typically affects only one ear (unless the cause is a medication). Depending on the cause of sudden hearing loss, people may have other symptoms such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, or a false sensation of spinning or moving (vertigo). About 1 in 5,000 to 1 in 10,000 people each year develop sudden hearing loss. […] Sudden hearing loss is itself a warning sign. […] Anyone with sudden hearing loss should see a doctor right away because some causes must be treated quickly. If symptoms of dysfunction of the nervous system other than hearing loss are present, hearing loss may be a symptom of nerve or brain dysfunction. […] When the cause is unknown, about half of people regain normal hearing and hearing is partially recovered in others. Improvement, if it can be achieved, usually occurs within 10 to 14 days. Recovery from an ototoxic medication varies greatly depending on the medication and the dosage. With some medications (such as aspirin and diuretics), hearing returns within 24 hours. However, antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs often cause permanent hearing loss if safe dosages have been exceeded. […] A few people have an obvious cause (such as severe head injury or infection or use of medications that can damage hearing). […] In a very few people, sudden hearing loss is the first sign of an underlying disorder.
  • #2 Hearing loss – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hearing_loss
    Hearing loss is a partial or total inability to hear. Hearing loss may be present at birth or acquired at any time afterwards. Hearing loss may occur in one or both ears. In children, hearing problems can affect the ability to acquire spoken language, and in adults it can create difficulties with social interaction and at work. Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. Hearing loss related to age usually affects both ears and is due to cochlear hair cell loss. In some people, particularly older people, hearing loss can result in loneliness. […] Hearing loss can be categorized as mild (25 to 40 dB), moderate (41 to 55 dB), moderate-severe (56 to 70 dB), severe (71 to 90 dB), or profound (greater than 90 dB). […] Hearing loss is associated with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The risk increases with the hearing loss degree.
  • #2 Symptoms of Hearing Loss & Degree of Hearing Loss
    https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hearing-loss-causes-symptoms-treatment
    Hearing Loss Symptoms […] In many cases, hearing fades so slowly you don’t notice it. You may think people are mumbling more, your spouse needs to speak up, or you need a better phone. As long as some sound still comes in, you could assume your hearing is fine. But you may become more and more cut off from the world of speech and sounds. […] Doctors classify hearing loss by degrees. […] Mild hearing loss: One-on-one conversations are fine, but it’s hard to catch every word when there’s background noise. […] […] Moderate hearing loss: You often need to ask people to repeat themselves during conversations in person and on the phone. […] […] Severe hearing loss: Following a conversation is almost impossible unless you have a hearing aid. […] […] Profound hearing loss: You can’t hear other people speaking unless they’re extremely loud. You can’t understand what they’re saying without a hearing aid or cochlear implant.
  • #2 Understanding the 5 Stages of Hearing Loss: Jacksonville ENT Surgery: Otolaryngology
    https://www.jacksonvilleentsurgery.com/blog/understanding-the-5-stages-of-hearing-loss
    Stage 2, or moderate hearing loss, is diagnosed when the quietest sounds you can hear are between 35 and 49 dB. This is typically the stage in which we recommend beginning hearing aids as the hearing loss is usually significant enough to impact daily life. […] Moderate hearing loss makes it difficult to hear in many situations and affects your ability to participate fully in most conversations, and you may struggle to hear parts of telephone conversations. […] When the quietest sounds you can hear are between 50 and 64 dB, the diagnosis is stage 3, or moderately severe hearing loss. Once youve reached this stage of hearing loss, its difficult to hear most sounds without the assistance of hearing aids. […] People with stage 3 hearing loss find it very difficult to participate in conversational speech, and probably cant hear loud sounds, even when theyre nearby, like a dog barking or the vacuum cleaner running.
  • #2 Hearing loss Information | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/symptoms/hearing-loss
    Hearing loss is being partly or totally unable to hear sound in one or both ears. […] Symptoms of hearing loss may include: Certain sounds seem overly loud in one ear, Difficulty following conversations when two or more people are talking, Difficulty hearing in noisy areas, Trouble telling high-pitched sounds (such as „s” or „th”) from one another, Less trouble hearing men’s voices than women’s voices, Hearing voices as mumbled or slurred. […] Associated symptoms may include: Feeling of being off-balance or dizzy (more common with Ménière disease and acoustic neuroma), Feeling of pressure in the ear (usually due to fluid behind the eardrum), Ringing or buzzing sound in the ears (tinnitus). […] Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when the tiny hair cells (nerve endings) that detect sound in the inner ear are injured, diseased, do not work correctly, or have died. This type of hearing loss often cannot be reversed.
  • #2 Diagnosing Hearing Loss | NYU Langone Health
    https://nyulangone.org/conditions/hearing-loss/diagnosis
    Based on your responses, doctors can assess whether youre experiencing symptoms of conductive hearing loss, sensorineural hearing loss, or mixed hearing loss. […] If a medical history and physical exam indicate that the cause of hearing loss is likely sensorineural, audiologists may perform otoacoustic emission testing to determine if the inner ear, or cochlea, is damaged. […] If hearing loss affects one ear and not the other, called unilateral hearing loss, and if the results of hearing tests indicate that sensorineural hearing loss may be causing your symptoms, doctors may recommend an MRI scan to visualize the inner ear and surrounding structures. […] If the results of hearing tests indicate that conductive hearing loss might be causing your symptoms, doctors may recommend a CT scan to visualize the middle ear in sharp detail.
  • #2
    https://www.virsonohearing.com/hearing-loss-symptoms
    Hearing Loss Symptoms by Type […] Understanding the severity of hearing loss can also help in early detection and prompt treatment. Below, we will explore the symptoms associated with varying degrees of hearing loss, namely mild, moderate, and severe. […] Mild Hearing Loss Symptoms […] People with mild hearing loss often find it difficult to keep up with conversations, particularly in noisy environments. Here are some common symptoms: Trouble understanding words when theres background noise or multiple people speaking. Frequently asking others to speak more slowly, clearly, and loudly. Needing to turn up the volume on the TV or radio. […] Moderate Hearing Loss Symptoms […] When the hearing loss advances to a moderate stage, symptoms may become more noticeable: Difficulty keeping up with conversations without using a hearing aid. Greater difficulty understanding spoken words, especially against background noise. More frequent requests for repetition in conversations. […] Severe Hearing Loss Symptoms […] Severe hearing loss significantly disrupts daily living and communication. At this stage, symptoms might include: Inability to hear conversations without a hearing aid or cochlear implant. Trouble hearing even when volume is increased. Misunderstanding more words in conversations and frequently requiring repetition. Withdrawal from conversations or social isolation due to difficulty hearing. […] Understanding the range and extent of these symptoms can help identify the level of hearing loss a person might be experiencing. This in turn can guide appropriate and timely interventions. Remember, early detection is always key to preventing further hearing damage and ensuring a good quality of life.
  • #2 Hearing loss progression concerning? – Hearing Loss – Hearing Aid Forum – Active Hearing Loss Community
    https://forum.hearingtracker.com/t/hearing-loss-progression-concerning/83104
    Hearing loss progression concerning? […] Im only 48 but have been dealing with declining asymmetrical hearing loss for the past 5 years. […] If I continue to lose 5-15DB of hearing a year, I will have severe hearing loss by 55. […] Im still trying to find a root cause so I can slow or stop the progression. […] Its very likely there is no cause, and no stopping the progression. […] I went from normal hearing, to a slight loss in my thirties, which progressively became worse, to almost complete deafness by my fifties. […] In the last year Ive started experiencing similar symptoms in my left ear as I did 5 years ago in my right. […] Im fearful my left ear is going to follow a similar pattern as my right. […] I have seen numerous ENTs, MRIs done etc and nothing can be found to explain. […] Ive been told by all hearing doctors Ive met that it should plateau but this has yet to happen.
  • #2
    https://www.hear.com/hearing-loss/sudden/
    Ear pressure and/or tinnitus are typically the first signs of sudden hearing loss. Symptoms occur at once or within a few days, usually in one ear, and can vary in severity. In worst case scenarios, permanent deafness is possible. […] The most common symptoms of sudden hearing loss include: Occurrence of hearing loss without a recognizable cause, The absence of an earache, Hearing loss in only one ear. […] Accompanying symptoms include: Dizziness, Loss of sensation in the outer ear, Ear pressure, Tinnitus. […] Sudden hearing loss may result in various complications, including persistent or permanent hearing loss or complete deafness. Another possible long-term complication is the development of tinnitus, which can also be accompanied by a permanent feeling of pressure in the ear. In some cases, sudden hearing loss is followed by a feeling of internal restlessness and a racing heartbeat.
  • #2 How Fast Will My Hearing Loss Progress? | The Hearing Solution
    https://www.thehearingsolution.com/hearing-blog/how-fast-will-my-hearing-loss-progress
    The most common type of hearing loss is a gradual decrease in hearing sensitivity. This decrease typically starts in our 20s but it does not impact our ability to communicate in most situations until our 50s to 60s. […] The progression of loss typically stays the same after the loss has been identified, even with the use of hearing aids. […] Typically, no. The above comorbidities may accelerate hearing loss. […] Cochlear Implants are only recommended when hearing aids are no longer useful. […] When you and your audiologist choose your hearing aids together, the audiologist chooses a hearing aid that would have the capability to meet your needs for 5-6 years. […] Additionally, your audiologist will test your hearing annually and will use this data to ensure that you are receiving the right amount of amplification as your hearing loss changes. Even small changes in hearing sensitivity will warrant the reprogramming of your hearing aids. […] The portion of your hearing aids that fit in your ears may change as your hearing loss changes.
  • #2 Hearing Loss – Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/hearing-loss/hearing-loss
    Worldwide, about half a billion people (almost 8% of the world’s population) have hearing loss. Approximately 15% of American adults (37.5 million) ages 18 and over report some trouble hearing. About 2 to 3 out of every 1,000 children in the United States are born with a detectable level of hearing loss in one or both ears. During childhood and adolescence, the prevalence of moderate to severe hearing loss increases to 6 out of 1,000. Adolescents are at risk from excessive exposure to noise, head trauma, or both. Older adults typically experience a progressive decrease in hearing (presbycusis), which is directly related to a combination of aging, noise exposure, and genetic factors. Approximately 5% of adults ages 45 to 54 have disabling hearing loss. The rate increases to 10% for adults ages 55 to 64 years. Approximately 22% of those ages 65 to 74 and 55% of those who are 75 years and older have disabling hearing loss.
  • #2 Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL) | NIDCD
    https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/sudden-deafness
    One sign of SSHL could be the loss of at least 30 decibels (decibels are a measure of sound intensity) in three connected frequencies within 72 hours. […] Treatment that is delayed for more than two to four weeks is less likely to reverse or reduce permanent hearing loss. […] If your hearing loss is severe, does not respond to treatment, and/or happens in both ears, your doctor may recommend that you use hearing aids (to amplify sound) or even receive cochlear implants (to directly stimulate the auditory connections in the ear that go to the brain).
  • #2 Symptoms of Hearing Loss & Degree of Hearing Loss
    https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hearing-loss-causes-symptoms-treatment
    Early on, high-pitched sounds, such as children’s and female voices, and the sounds „S” and „F” become harder to make out. You may also: […] Have trouble following a conversation when more than one person speaks at once […] […] Think other people are mumbling or not speaking clearly […] […] Often misunderstand what others say and respond inappropriately […] […] Get complaints that the TV is too loud […] […] Hear ringing, roaring, or hissing sounds in your ears, known as tinnitus. […] Sudden hearing loss, the rapid loss of 30 decibels or more of hearing ability, can happen over several hours or up to 3 days. (A normal conversation is 60 decibels.) Sudden hearing loss usually affects only one ear. Although there are up to three new cases per every 10,000 people each year, doctors are not able to discover the cause in most cases.
  • #2 What Are the Early Signs of Hearing Loss?
    https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/hearing-loss-signs
    When you cant hear all the sounds of speech, your brain has to fill in the gaps to make sense of what others are saying. That takes a great deal of focus, especially when theres more than one person speaking at a time. […] Age-related hearing loss can make sounds seem dull or muffled, which may seem similar to a clogged feeling. […] When you hear bass tones better than high tones, the music and effects can drown out parts of the speech. So to make out what the characters are saying, you may crank up the volume. If others in your house complain that the TV is too loud, its time to get your hearing checked.
  • #2 Deafness and hearing loss: Causes, symptoms, and treatments
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/249285
    A feeling of isolation is a common problem, which can sometimes lead to depression and loneliness. […] The severity of hearing impairment is categorized by how much louder volumes need to be set at before they can detect a sound. […] There are four levels of deafness or hearing impairment. […] Mild deafness or mild hearing impairment: The person can only detect sounds between 25 and 29 decibels (dB). […] Moderate deafness or moderate hearing impairment: The person can only detect sounds between 40 and 69 dB. […] Severe deafness: The person only hears sounds above 70 to 89 dB. […] Profound deafness: Anybody who cannot hear a sound below 90dB has profound deafness. Some people with profound deafness cannot hear anything at all, at any decibel level. Communication is carried out using sign language, lip-reading, or reading and writing.
  • #2 Hearing Loss Signs & Symptoms | Rush
    https://www.rush.edu/conditions/hearing-loss
    Hearing loss affects all facets of your life, including your ability to connect easily with others. Hearing loss can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. It can affect one ear or both ears. […] By age 60, nearly one in three adults experience signs of hearing loss. About half of all adults in their 70s and older have some type of hearing loss. […] Hearing loss can be so gradual that you may not even realize how bad your hearing has become. […] For older adults, untreated hearing loss is known to be related to a decline in social, mental and cognitive function. […] Signs of hearing loss in adults may include one or more of the following: Hearing muffled or muted speech, Difficulty understanding conversations when in noisy spaces, such as restaurants, Having tinnitus, a constant or sporadic sound in one or both ears, such as ringing, buzzing, roaring or hissing, Feeling of pressure in one or both ears, Needing to turn the volume up high on the TV or other devices.
  • #2 Hearing Loss Symptoms | Starkey
    https://www.starkeycanada.ca/hearing-loss/symptoms
    The signs of hearing loss are more obvious than you think. […] Here are ways to tell if you or someone you love might have hearing loss. […] If you find yourself saying what? all the time, or you need to be looking at someone to hear what theyre saying (by also reading their lips), your hearing might be fading. […] When you cant have a conversation because your TV is too loud, its time to get a hearing test. […] This is one of the first challenges people with hearing loss encounter: tracking what someone else is saying in a noise-filled place like a restaurant. […] High-frequency hearing loss is very common so its to be expected that women and children’s voices would be tough to hear. […] A classic complaint of people who have hearing loss is that others dont speak clearly. If you find yourself thinking people are mumbling and hard to understand, that may be a symptom of hearing loss.
  • #2 Hearing Loss: Types, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17673-hearing-loss
    Hearing loss happens when something affects your hearing system. If you have hearing loss, you may have trouble understanding, following or participating in conversations. It may be hard for you to hear telephone conversations, to take part in online meetings or follow dialogue when you’re watching television. […] Most people lose their hearing gradually. They may not even notice that it’s happening. In general, you may be developing hearing loss if: You often ask people to repeat themselves. You have trouble following a conversation, especially when you’re talking on the telephone or in a noisy environment like a restaurant. You think people are mumbling. You can’t hear certain high-pitched sounds, like birds singing. You need to turn up the volume on your television, computer or tablet. You have tinnitus (ringing in your ears). Your ear hurts (earache). You feel as if there’s pressure or fluid inside your ear. You have balance problems or dizziness.
  • #2 Recognising hearing loss – First signs | Amplifon
    https://www.amplifon.com/uk/recognising-hearing-loss/signs-and-symptoms
    This is a good indication your level of hearing is lower than others around you. […] If you are having difficulty following a conversation in crowds or If you often have trouble differentiating between whos speaking to you in a noisy environment this is an early sign of hearing loss. […] If you are misunderstanding people when they are speaking to you, this can often lead to a string of misinterpretations and can cause miscommunication between you and those youre speaking to. […] Asking others to constantly repeat themselves is not only frustrating to those trying to tell you something, but it can start to make you feel uncomfortable as well. […] Hearing loss is linked to a physical condition that initially presents itself in a mild form and progresses slowly but steadily, affecting each person differently. […] However, this process can be managed through regular check ups and resolved with a wide range of solutions.
  • #2 8 Signs You’re Losing Your Hearing – Maryland ENT
    https://www.marylandent.com/8-signs-youre-losing-your-hearing/
    It can be challenging to talk to other people and understand what they’re saying over competing voices or music. […] When hearing loss sets in, it becomes increasingly difficult to follow conversations in places with plenty of background noise, like in a restaurant or at a party, where many people are talking. […] If you can’t, it doesn’t mean everything around you is quiet. Instead, hearing loss could be to blame. […] These are common warning signs and indications that it’s time to get your hearing checked. […] Hearing loss also triggers emotional and mental effects like anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, anger, and denial. […] It’s vital to see a hearing care expert as soon as possible instead of ignoring your symptoms.
  • #2 10 Signs That You Could Have Hearing Loss
    https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/hearing-loss-signs/
    „Usually, sound is going in both ears, but when you’re talking on the phone it’s only going in one, which makes it more difficult especially if you hold the phone to the ear that has more hearing loss.” […] „Feel like you’re easily startled by loud noises? Blame it on a phenomenon called recruitment, which is common in people with hearing loss.” […] „Background noise is difficult for everyone, even those with typical hearing.” […] „But if the sound is so loud you need to turn it down to hear someone saying, Turn down the TV, it’s a sign something could be wrong with your hearing.” […] „The inner ear, where hearing occurs, is like a house with two rooms.” […] „It’s difficult to remember things you don’t hear clearly.” […] „The punchline is often told in a funny way or it’s a play on words, and if you can’t decipher all the words, you don’t get the joke.” […] „It takes a significant amount of energy and concentration to decode a message that is missing numerous elements.”
  • #2 Hearing Loss Symptoms | Starkey
    https://www.starkeymea.com/hearing-loss/symptoms
    The signs of hearing loss are more obvious than you think. […] Here are ways to tell if you or someone you love might have hearing loss. […] If you find yourself saying what? all the time, or you need to be looking at someone to hear what theyre saying (by also reading their lips), your hearing might be fading. […] When you cant have a conversation because your TV is too loud, its time to get a hearing test. […] This is one of the first challenges people with hearing loss encounter: tracking what someone else is saying in a noise-filled place like a restaurant. […] High-frequency hearing loss is very common so its to be expected that women and children’s voices would be tough to hear. […] A classic complaint of people who have hearing loss is that others dont speak clearly. If you find yourself thinking people are mumbling and hard to understand, that may be a symptom of hearing loss.
  • #2 Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
    https://www.houstonent.com/blog/sensorineural-hearing-loss-signs-symptoms-causes-and-treatment
    Sensorineural hearing loss causes over 90% of adult hearing loss. It’s due to issues of your inner ear, also called nerve-related hearing loss. The loss of hearing can vary from mild to severe and can even be profound. It often becomes worse gradually over time, depending on what’s causing it. […] Symptoms of Sensorineural Hearing Loss might include: It’s hard to follow conversations that involve more than two individuals or when there’s noise in the background. People sound like they’re mumbling or sounds seem unclear. Difficulty understanding public verbal information like on loudspeakers, at work, in stores, or in restaurants. Buzzing or ringing in your ears (tinnitus) is common with Sensorineural hearing loss. Hard time hearing high-pitched sounds. Hard time understanding phone conversations.
  • #2 Sensorineural deafness: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003291.htm
    Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is caused by damage to these special cells, or to the nerve fibers in the inner ear. Sometimes, the hearing loss is caused by damage to the nerve that carries the signals to the brain. […] SNHL may develop in children or adults later in life (acquired) as a result of: Age-related hearing loss, Disease of the blood vessels, Immune disease, Infections, such as meningitis, mumps, scarlet fever, and measles, Injury of the ear or head, Loud noises or sounds, or loud sounds that last for a long time, Meniere disease, Tumor, such as acoustic neuroma, Use of certain medicines, Working around loud noises every day. […] A cochlear implant may be recommended for certain people with severe hearing loss. Surgery is done to place the implant. The implant makes sounds seem louder, but does not restore normal hearing.
  • #2 Conductive Hearing Loss – ENT Health
    https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/conductive-hearing-loss/
    Symptoms of conductive hearing loss can vary depending on the exact cause and severity (see below), but may include or be associated with: […] Sudden or steady loss of hearing […] Conductive hearing loss happens when the natural movement of sound through the external ear or middle ear is blocked, and the full sound does not reach the inner ear. […] If you are experiencing hearing loss, you should see an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist, or otolaryngologist, who can make a specific diagnosis for you, and talk to you about treatment options, including surgical procedures. […] Will my hearing loss likely get worse with time?
  • #2 Conductive Hearing Loss | Signs & Symptoms
    https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/c/conductive-hearing-loss
    Conductive hearing loss is caused by a problem in the outer or middle ear. Sound does not travel well through the outer ear canal, through the eardrum and to the tiny bones (ossicles) of the middle ear. […] Limited access to sound caused by conductive hearing loss can make a difference in speech and language development. It can also affect school performance. In some cases, amplification devices or intervention services may be needed to help a child succeed. […] You may notice your child: Is behind in talking or doesnt talk clearly, Often asks others to repeat themselves, asks, huh? or what? or says they dont hear you, Listens to electronics at very loud volumes, Has frequent ear infections, Speaks loudly all the time, Does not respond to their name, speech or loud sounds, Becomes frustrated when trying to listen in background noise, Is always distracted, Prefers one ear over another, or complains they can only hear out of their good ear.
  • #2 Mixed Hearing Loss: Signs, Causes & Treatment | Baptist Health
    https://www.baptisthealth.com/care-services/conditions-treatments/mixed-hearing-loss
    Cochlear implants If someone has severe sensorineural hearing loss and hearing aids do not help, they may be able to get a cochlear implant. Cochlear implants work by sending signals directly to the hearing nerve, even if the hair cells in the inner ear are damaged. This can improve the person’s ability to hear and understand sounds. […] Untreated mixed hearing loss can lead to various complications. Prolonged hearing loss can strain personal and professional relationships, as communication becomes more challenging. Neglecting untreated hearing loss can put individuals at a higher risk of isolation, depression, and a decline in cognitive function.
  • #2 Hearing loss symptoms: Signs of hearing impairment
    https://www.healthyhearing.com/help/hearing-loss/symptoms
    The symptoms and signs are generally pretty obvious—you suddenly can’t hear well out of one ear. […] A conductive hearing loss can present as a flat hearing loss, muffling hearing across the frequency spectrum (all pitches). However, sensorineural hearing loss can also sometimes cause a loss of hearing across all pitches. […] You may notice it’s harder to tell where sound is coming from, known as localization. […] Temporary hearing loss is characterized by a temporary threshold shift (TTS), meaning that hearing is temporarily worse following loud sound exposure but may improve within one to two days. […] Symptoms of hearing loss in children include: A delay in speech and language development; Child does not startle when loud sound is present; Child cannot localize sound (tell where sound is coming from); Poor performance in school; Behavioral problems in school; A learning disability diagnosis. […] Permanent hearing loss cannot be restored and usually involves damage to the auditory nerves or the tiny hair cells of the inner ear.
  • #2 Signs, Symptoms and Steps – Hearing Loss Association of America
    https://www.hearingloss.org/understanding-hearing-loss/hearing-loss-101/signs-symptoms-and-steps/
    Hearing loss is a growing public health crisis affecting people of all ages with many more at risk. It can be sudden or gradual, making it easy to miss or ignore. […] Signs you or your loved one may have hearing loss: Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. Thinking that people are mumbling. Frequently asking others to repeat themselves. Family or friends complain that you ask them to repeat often. Turning up the volume on the television or radio. Trouble understanding phone calls. Withdrawal from conversations and social situations. Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears). […] Even a mild hearing loss can impact daily life, so take Steps for Success as soon as possible. […] If you experience any of the following conditions, seek immediate medical attention: Sudden hearing loss, especially in one ear. Sudden ringing or buzzing in the ear. Ear pain, drainage or dizziness. […] Even a mild hearing loss can affect cognition, employment and relationships.
  • #2
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/deafness-and-hearing-loss
    Early identification of hearing loss and ear diseases is key to effective management. […] Once hearing loss is identified, it is essential that it is addressed as early as possible and in an appropriate manner, to mitigate any adverse impact. […] Rehabilitation helps people with hearing loss to function at their optimum, which means they can be as independent as possible in everyday activities. Specifically, rehabilitation helps them to participate in education, work, recreation and meaningful roles, for example in their families or communities, throughout their lives.
  • #2 Hearing Loss – La Crosse – Mayo Clinic Health System
    https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/locations/la-crosse/services-and-treatments/otorhinolaryngology/ear-conditions-and-treatment/hearing-loss
    Gradual buildup of earwax. Earwax can block the ear canal and prevent conduction of sound waves. Earwax removal can help restore your hearing. […] Ruptured eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation). Loud blasts of noise, sudden changes in pressure, poking your eardrum with an object and infection can cause your eardrum to rupture and affect your hearing. […] Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your hearing loss. Options include: […] Cochlear implants. If you have more severe hearing loss and gain limited benefit from conventional hearing aids, then a cochlear implant may be an option. […] Hearing aids. If your hearing loss is due to damage to your inner ear, a hearing aid can be helpful. […] Removing wax blockage. Earwax blockage is a reversible cause of hearing loss. […] Surgical procedures. Some types of hearing loss can be treated with surgery, including abnormalities of the eardrum or bones of hearing.
  • #3 Signs of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss | Loud Noises Can Cause Hearing Loss | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/hearing-loss/signs-symptoms/index.html
    Dont wait until you show signs of hearing loss. […] If you have any signs of or if you are at risk for noise-induced hearing loss, get your hearing tested. […] Prevention and early detection of noise-induced hearing loss are important. It is also important to pay attention to signs of hearing loss and to get your hearing tested. Signs include: Speech and other sounds seem muffled. […] Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds. […] Trouble understanding conversations when in a noisy place, such as a restaurant. […] Trouble understanding speech over the phone. […] Trouble hearing certain sounds such as the difference between s and f in speech. […] Asking others to speak more slowly and clearly. […] Asking someone to speak more loudly or repeat what they said. […] Turning up the volume of the television or radio. […] Ringing in the ears. […] Certain sounds are very bothersome or create pain.
  • #3 Types of Hearing Loss | Hearing Loss in Children | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/hearing-loss-children/about/types-of-hearing-loss.html
    Hearing loss can happen when any part of the ear or auditory (hearing) system is not working in the usual way. […] The degree of hearing loss can range from mild to profound. […] Hearing loss can also be described as: […] Progressive or sudden. Hearing loss worsens over time (progressive) or happens quickly (sudden).
  • #3 Understanding the 5 Stages of Hearing Loss: Jacksonville ENT Surgery: Otolaryngology
    https://www.jacksonvilleentsurgery.com/blog/understanding-the-5-stages-of-hearing-loss
    Severe, or stage 4, hearing loss is the diagnosis when the quietest sounds you can detect fall between 65 and 79 dB. With severe hearing loss, you need strong hearing aids to navigate daily life since this stage is considered very hard of hearing. […] With stage 4 hearing loss, you cannot hear conversational speech at all, and youll likely struggle to hear loud speech. Most loud sounds, such as a baby near you, go unnoticed. […] Stage 5, or profound hearing loss, occurs when the quietest sound you can hear is 80 dB or higher. Hearing loss at this level usually requires powerful hearing aids or implants to help you hear well. […] When youre in stage 4 (severe) or stage 5 (profound), you may notice that you rely on nonaural cues, like lip-reading, sign language, or a combination of methods, to communicate with others.
  • #3
    https://www.hear.com/hearing-loss/sudden/
    Ear pressure and/or tinnitus are typically the first signs of sudden hearing loss. Symptoms occur at once or within a few days, usually in one ear, and can vary in severity. In worst case scenarios, permanent deafness is possible. […] The most common symptoms of sudden hearing loss include: Occurrence of hearing loss without a recognizable cause, The absence of an earache, Hearing loss in only one ear. […] Accompanying symptoms include: Dizziness, Loss of sensation in the outer ear, Ear pressure, Tinnitus. […] Sudden hearing loss may result in various complications, including persistent or permanent hearing loss or complete deafness. Another possible long-term complication is the development of tinnitus, which can also be accompanied by a permanent feeling of pressure in the ear. In some cases, sudden hearing loss is followed by a feeling of internal restlessness and a racing heartbeat.
  • #3 Hearing Loss: Types, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17673-hearing-loss
    Hearing loss happens when something affects your hearing system. If you have hearing loss, you may have trouble understanding, following or participating in conversations. It may be hard for you to hear telephone conversations, to take part in online meetings or follow dialogue when you’re watching television. […] Most people lose their hearing gradually. They may not even notice that it’s happening. In general, you may be developing hearing loss if: You often ask people to repeat themselves. You have trouble following a conversation, especially when you’re talking on the telephone or in a noisy environment like a restaurant. You think people are mumbling. You can’t hear certain high-pitched sounds, like birds singing. You need to turn up the volume on your television, computer or tablet. You have tinnitus (ringing in your ears). Your ear hurts (earache). You feel as if there’s pressure or fluid inside your ear. You have balance problems or dizziness.
  • #4 Hearing Loss Signs: In Beginning, Progression, Types
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/hearing-loss-signs-7570679
    There are four degrees of hearing loss with varying symptoms. […] Mild hearing loss is when some soft sounds are difficult to hear. Symptoms might include: Difficulty hearing softer voices or children, Finding it easier to listen to consonant sounds rather than vowel sounds, Asking others to repeat themselves so you can understand them better, Feeling like trying to hear with fingers in your ear. […] Moderate hearing loss is when: A person cannot hear most speech at normal levels. Hearing might not always improve when hearing aids are turned up. […] Severe hearing loss: A person with severe hearing loss cannot hear normal speech, has difficulty with some loud noises, and needs hearing aids or cochlear implants for all speech. […] Profound hearing loss is when: A person might not hear loud noises, like engines and fire alarms, without hearing aids. Speech is completely inaudible without help.