$Unique_ID{BRK02066}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Potential Causes of Hearing Loss in the Aging}
$Subject{hear hearing acuity aging process presbycusis decibels audiometer ear
wax cerumen tympanic membrane middle ears outer ear infection otitis inner ear
hearing aid hearing loss age}
$Volume{}
$Log{
Anatomy of the Inner Ear*0003301.scf}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Potential Causes of Hearing Loss in the Aging


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  As I grow older, I seem to hear a good deal less.  My wife tells me
that it is a normal part of aging, and that I still hear enough, maybe too
much.  I don't doubt her word, but am curious to know if everyone gets a bit
hard of hearing as they get older.  Do you think that there is anything that
should be done about my condition?  Thanks for your always interesting and
informative column.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  Your actions will have to depend upon your condition.  Yes, it is
true that there is a loss of hearing acuity that goes along with the aging
process.  It's called "presbycusis," and while age does play a role, hearing
loss can be the result of other, more easily remedied situations.
Interestingly enough, it seems that people who have lived in urban or more
noisy environments are more prone to hearing loss than those who dwell in
rural or quieter surroundings.  The amount of loss is calculated in decibels
and is determined by a simple test using a device called an "audiometer".
However, a good physical examination may reveal that the lost hearing is due
to ear wax (cerumen), an injury to the tympanic membrane that separates the
middle ear from the outer ear, or an infection (otitis) in either the middle
or inner ear.  When these causes have been cared for and removed and hearing
loss remains, a hearing aid may be the solution, as it serves to amplify sound
to a level that you can hear more easily.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.