Kuulonheikentymät

Kuulonheikentymät, also known as hearing loss, refers to a reduced ability to hear sounds. It can affect one or both ears and range in severity from mild to profound. The causes of hearing loss are varied and can include genetic factors, age-related changes, exposure to loud noise, infections, certain medications, and medical conditions affecting the ear or auditory nerve.

There are three main types of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are blocked from reaching the inner ear, often due to issues in the outer or middle ear, such as earwax blockage or ear infections. Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ear (cochlea) or the auditory nerve, which transmits sound information to the brain. This is the most common type of permanent hearing loss. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural components.

Symptoms of hearing loss can develop gradually and may include difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, needing to turn up the volume on devices, and experiencing ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus). Diagnosis typically involves a hearing evaluation by an audiologist, which may include pure-tone audiometry and speech audiometry.

Treatment options depend on the type and severity of hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss may be treatable with medication or surgery. Sensorineural hearing loss is often managed with hearing aids, cochlear implants, or assistive listening devices. Early detection and intervention are important for managing hearing loss and improving communication and quality of life.