Audiology

Hearing

Have You Heard? • Most hearing losses develop over a period of 25 to 30 years. • One in every ten Americans has hearing loss. This number is expected to climb rapidly and nearly double by 2030. • Among older adults, hearing loss is the third most prevalent, but treatable disabling condition (behind arthritis and hypertension). • The vast majority of Americans (95%) with hearing loss are treated with hearing aids. Only 5% of hearing loss in adults can be improved through medical or surgical treatment.

What is Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss is a sudden or gradual decrease in your ability to hear. Depending on the cause, hearing loss can range from mild to profound and can be temporary or permanent.

You Can Have Hearing Loss Without Knowing It

Your family or friends may be the first to notice a hearing problem, especially if it has developed gradually, over a period of years. For instance, they may see that you’re having difficulty hearing and understanding conversation, especially in situations where there's a lot of background noise or when numerous people are speaking.

Effects on Major Aspects of Your Life

Hearing loss can affect your personal safety and productivity at work and at home. Undiagnosed and untreated, it can contribute to depression, social isolation, and a loss of independence, especially in older adults. However, hearing aids and other devices can help enhance your quality of life by helping you adapt to hearing loss.

Learn More

• Symptoms of Hearing Loss
• Causes of Hearing Loss
• Types of Hearing Loss
• Diagnosing Hearing Loss
• Degrees of Hearing Loss
• Treating Hearing Loss
• Preventing Hearing Loss