Kuulovaurio

Kuulovaurio is the Finnish term for hearing loss or impairment, referring to a partial or complete reduction of hearing in one or both ears. The condition can be classified as sensorineural, conductive, or mixed, and the severity ranges from mild to profound. It may be present at birth or develop later in life.

Common causes and risk factors include age-related changes (presbyacusis), prolonged exposure to loud noise, infections affecting the ear, ototoxic medications, head trauma, and genetic or congenital conditions. Other conditions such as Menière’s disease, autoimmune inner-ear disease, and certain metabolic disorders can contribute to hearing loss.

Symptoms vary but often include difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, needing louder volumes for television or phones, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Hearing loss can affect communication, social participation, safety, and overall quality of life.

Diagnosis is typically made by an audiologist or physician through hearing tests such as pure-tone audiometry and speech audiometry, tympanometry, and otoacoustic emissions. Imaging studies may be used in some cases to assess structural problems or related conditions.

Treatment focuses on improving hearing and communication. Options include hearing aids for many types of hearing loss, cochlear implants for severe-to-profound sensorineural loss, and bone-anchored or middle-ear implants when appropriate. Assistive listening devices, communication strategies, and hearing rehabilitation services are also important. Prevention includes protecting ears from loud noise, reducing exposure to ototoxic substances when possible, and regular hearing checks, especially for older adults and workers in noisy environments.