Why do we lose our hearing as we age?

There are many factors that can contribute to age-related hearing loss. It can be difficult to differentiate age-related hearing loss from hearing loss that can occur for other reasons, such as being exposed to noise for a long time.

Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when you are exposed for a long time to sounds that are too loud or that last for too long. This type of exposure to noise can damage sensory hair cells in the ear, which allow us to hear. Once these hair cells are damaged, they don't grow back and the ability to hear decreases.

Medical problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes, which are more common in older people, can contribute to hearing loss. Medications that are toxic to sensory cells in the ears (for example, some chemotherapy drugs) can also cause hearing loss.

Rarely, age-related hearing loss can be caused by abnormalities of the outer ear or middle ear. These abnormalities may include a decrease in the function of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) or in the function of the three tiny ossicles in the middle ear that carry sound waves from the tympanic membrane to the inner ear.

Most older people with hearing loss have a combination of age-related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss.

Can I prevent age-related hearing loss?

Right now, scientists don't know how to prevent age-related hearing loss. However, you can protect yourself against noise-induced hearing loss by protecting your ears from sounds that are too loud and last for a long time. It's important to be aware of potential sources of harmful noise, such as loud music, firearms, snowmobiles, lawnmowers and leaf blowers. Avoiding loud noises, reducing the time you are exposed to loud noises, and protecting your ears with earplugs or earmuffs are some easy steps you can take to protect your hearing and limit the amount of hearing you might lose as you age.

What should I do if I have trouble hearing?

Hearing problems can be serious. The most important thing you can do if you think you have a hearing problem is to seek professional help. There are several types of professionals who can help you. You can start with your primary care doctor, an otolaryngologist, an audiologist, or a hearing aid specialist. Everyone has different training and experience. Each one can be an important part of caring for your hearing health. At Clínica Las Mercedes we have the privilege of having excellent primary doctors, and you can also check your condition with specialists at the same center. Make an appointment with your doctor and give us the opportunity to care for you as you deserve. Join the great family of Clínica Las Mercedes today.

Source: www.nidcd.nih.gov