The ear is comprised of three parts:
the external ear, the middle ear and the inner ear. Hearing impairments
occurs when there is an obstruction, disease or injury to one
or more parts of the ear. You can protect yourself if you are
aware of what can cause hearing damage.
Noise
Exposure
to loud noise for prolonged periods of time will eventually cause
a permanent hearing impairment. A sudden loud noise, even a single
incident, such as a firearm discharging, can in some instances
cause permanent hearing impairment. To prevent this problem,
wear hearing protection. Custom molded protection is available
for virtually every occupation or recreational noise hazard.
Even non-custom protection, such as foam plugs and/or earmuffs
when used properly can prevent permanent hearing loss.
Colds and Sinus Problems
Allergies,
sinus problems, colds and throat infections can lead to middle
ear problems, especially in young children. The eustachian
tube is connected to the middle ear and normally drains any excess
fluid. If the eustachian tube becomes blocked you can suffer
extreme pain and may even rupture the eardrum. If untreated,
the small bones in the middle ear can become damaged and a hearing
impairment will result.
Injuries
Never
remove earwax with hairpins, cotton swabs, etc. You could
damage your eardrum or scratch your ear canal and cause an infection.
Any excess wax should be removed by an audiologist or your physician.
Diseases and Viruses
Common
childhood diseases such as measles, mumps, scarlet fever, whooping
cough or any high fever can leave permanent hearing impairment.
Women, who are exposed to German measles or other viral diseases
during pregnancy, have a very high risk of giving birth to a
baby with a serious hearing problem. If you suspect your
baby has a hearing impairment, have his hearing tested.
Early care and treatment is very important for the child’s
development.
Age
It
is natural to experience some hearing impairment through aging.
About 10% of people over the age of 65 have hearing problems
significant enough to interfere with conversation.
Other Causes
Head
injuries or reactions to some types of medication can also cause
hearing impairment. Common symptoms that may be associated
with hearing impairment are ringing sounds in the ears and dizziness.
