The loss of hearing in most of us as we get older is age-related (presbycusis). It is one of the most prevalent disorders that affect the elderly. The cause of this condition is usually due to the degeneration within the inner ear and along the nerve pathways to the brain.
Most times, damage to the hair cells in the inner ear can be linked to the loss. When our ears receive sound waves, it is interpreted by the hair cells and translated into electrical signals for the brain to perceive as identifiable sound.
Since hair cells do not regenerate or regrow, any hearing loss resulting from damaged hair cells is permanent.
Symptoms of Age-related Hearing Loss
Since presbycusis develops slowly, many individuals do not know that they have trouble hearing. Here are several signs that suggest that you might have presbycusis if you are older and have hearing problems:
- It seems like other individuals are mumbling or slurring their speech and vocabulary. You learn, in other words, that you can hear but not understand.
- Conversations, especially when there is background noise, are hard to understand.
- Some sounds seem too noisy or distracting,
- Higher pitched noises, such as telephone rings or chirping birds, are difficult to hear.
- The voices of men are easier to grasp than those of women and girls.
- Hearing ringing, buzzing, hissing sounds in one or both sides of your ears that won’t reduce or stop. The ringing in the ear is known as Tinnitus.
Diagnosing Age-related Hearing Loss
If any of the symptoms we have mentioned affects your hearing capacity, make an appointment for a hearing exam, or see a hearing healthcare professional as soon as possible.
The findings of this assessment will help determine the cause and nature of your hearing loss, as well as the best way to manage the condition.
Is There a Cure For Age-related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis)?
There is no treatment for most cases of sensorineural hearing loss. However, it is possible to treat some cases of sensorineural hearing loss using hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive appliances for listening (ALDs) in Malaysia
Hearing Aids
Wearing hearing aids can help those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. A hearing health care provider will prescribe the form and style of hearing aid according to the seriousness of your hearing loss, lifestyle preferences, and budget, after a detailed hearing assessment.
Cochlear implant
Implants can be prescribed to the elderly. You might benefit from using a cochlear implant if you are diagnosed with severe or profound hearing loss. To help track sound and comprehend speech, these medical instruments are inserted surgically behind your ear.
Assistive appliances for listening (ALDs)
There are techs now available from your television, telephone, and other personal electronic devices to amplify sound. Based on the cause and severity of the hearing loss, ALDs can be used with or without hearing aids.
Is Age-related Hearing Loss Preventable?
There actionable steps you can take to prevent a lifestyle that can lead to age-related hearing loss.
- Follow the recommendations for food and exercise from your doctor if you have diabetes, heart failure, or other circulatory issues. The hair cells in the inner ear are dependent on good blood flow to keep them in good condition.
- Tell your doctor about the drugs that you take. The drugs may be linked to hearing loss. If so, inquire if there is an alternative drug he should recommend. Cut down or try to find alternative pain relief means taking significant doses of aspirin or other pain relievers.
- Steer clear of loud noises in your surroundings. For long or prolonged periods, sounds measuring more than 85 decibels (think heavy city traffic, cars, emergency sirens, and rock concerts) can permanently harm your hearing.
In a Nutshell
If you need assistance regarding age-related hearing loss (Presbycusis), the first step is to have your hearing tested by a professional in Malaysia.
If the hearing test shows that you have hearing loss, follow the prescribed course of treatment to regain your hearing. If you are still in doubt, please feel free to get in touch with our hearing specialists.