Hearing Loss in Northwest Arkansas and Serving Springdale, Rogers, & Fayetteville, AR
More than 48 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss. There are three major types of hearing loss, but every individual’s experience is affected by different factors, such as genetics, age and exposure to noise.
The three types of hearing loss are conductive, sensorineural and mixed. Conductive hearing loss is can be due to problems with the ear canal, eardrum or middle ear that prevent sound from passing through the ear. Sensorineural hearing loss is can be caused by problems with the inner ear (the cochlea) or the nerves coming from the cochlea, which senses sound waves and sends them to the brain for processing. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural. Our clinicians will determine what type of hearing loss you are experiencing and develop an effective and specialized treatment plan for your unique hearing needs.
Symptoms of hearing loss can go unnoticed if you don’t know what to look for. A very common symptom is difficulty hearing in noisy settings such as at a restaurant or party. Other symptoms include frequently asking people to repeat themselves, ringing in the ears, turning up the TV or radio volume louder than others need it and withdrawing from conversations. In children, symptoms of hearing loss may include not responding to noises, speaking unclearly and not following simple commands.
If you experience sudden hearing loss due to a loud noise or any other reason, you should seek immediate medical attention. While most hearing loss is gradual, one can have a sudden hearing loss. This can be an emergency.
Please contact us at (479) 750-2080 to schedule an appointment if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of hearing loss.
Age-Associated Hearing Loss
Roughly one in three people between ages 65 and 74 in the United States has hearing loss. This number is even greater for those over 75 – nearly one in two. Age-associated hearing loss, also called presbycusis, is one of the most common conditions in aging seniors. Recognizing this, the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery recommends that everyone aged 50 and above undergo regular hearing screenings. Early detection of hearing loss allows for timely intervention, which can significantly improve your quality of life. Addressing hearing issues promptly can help maintain effective communication, enhance social interactions, and prevent potential safety concerns. Recent research has highlighted a significant association between Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL) and cognitive impairment, including an increased risk of dementia. The Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) study, a comprehensive clinical trial, explored whether addressing hearing loss could influence cognitive decline. The study found that in older adults at increased risk for cognitive decline, the group receiving the hearing intervention experienced a 48% slower rate of cognitive decline compared to the control group. This suggests that managing hearing loss may play a crucial role in maintaining cognitive function in older adults. By staying proactive with regular hearing screenings, you can take charge of your hearing health and continue to enjoy the sounds of life.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common and preventable types of hearing loss. It occurs when prolonged exposure to loud sounds—or a single, extremely loud noise like an explosion—causes permanent damage to the inner ear. People at the highest risk include those who work in loud environments, such as construction sites, airports, concert venues, and military settings. However, anyone who regularly experiences loud noise—whether from music, machinery, or recreational activities—can be affected.
At Ear, Nose, and Throat Center of the Ozarks, we offer customized hearing protection solutions to help safeguard your hearing. Our team can assess your risk, determine the best protection for your needs, and provide both general and specialty hearing protection devices. Whether you need custom earplugs for work, musicians’ earplugs, or protection for recreational activities, we can tailor a solution that fits your lifestyle. Taking steps to protect your hearing today can prevent permanent damage in the future. If you’re interested in hearing protection options, contact us to learn more.
Sudden Hearing Loss
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) is a rapid, unexplained loss of hearing, typically in one ear, occurring within a 72-hour period. It’s considered a medical emergency, and prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional is crucial. Common symptoms include: a sudden decrease in hearing (often noticed upon waking or during daily activities), a sensation of fullness or blockage in the affected ear, tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds) in the ear, and dizziness or vertigo in some cases. In most instances, the exact cause of SSNHL remains unknown, termed idiopathic SSNHL. Viral infections, autoimmune diseases, inner ear disorders like Ménière’s disease, acoustic trauma (exposure to loud noises), vascular issues affecting blood flow to the inner ear may contribute to its development. There are about 66,000 new cases of sudden hearing loss each year in the United States. It can occur at any age but is most observed in adults in their 40s and 50s. Both men and women are equally affected. Early recognition and management of SSNHL can significantly improve the chances of hearing recovery and enhance quality of life. Early treatment is vital for better outcomes. Our providers may recommend treatments such as corticosteroids, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, hearing aids, or cochlear implants. Early recognition and management of SSNHL can significantly improve the chances of hearing recovery and enhance quality of life. If you or someone you know experiences sudden hearing loss, it is imperative to seek medical attention without delay.