Kuulonalenemänä

Kuulonalenemänä, also known as hearing loss, refers to a partial or complete inability to hear sound in one or both ears. It can range from mild, where only quiet sounds are difficult to perceive, to profound, where even very loud sounds are not heard. The causes of hearing loss are diverse and can include genetic factors, age-related changes, exposure to loud noise, certain infections like meningitis, head trauma, and ototoxic medications.

Hearing loss is broadly categorized into conductive, sensorineural, and mixed types. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are blocked from entering the outer or middle ear, preventing them from reaching the inner ear. This can be due to issues like earwax buildup, middle ear infections, or perforated eardrums. Sensorineural hearing loss, on the other hand, results from damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve. This is often permanent and can be caused by aging, noise exposure, or certain diseases. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural components.

Diagnosing hearing loss typically involves a hearing test, or audiogram, performed by an audiologist. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the hearing loss and may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, assistive listening devices, or medical interventions for treatable causes like ear infections. Early detection and management are crucial for minimizing the impact of hearing loss on communication, social interaction, and overall quality of life.