Presbycusis is age-related hearing loss. It is the most common form of hearing loss worldwide and affects approximately two-thirds of Americans aged 70 or older. There are several contributing factors to presbycusis, and the symptoms can be hard to notice initially. But if you’re struggling to hear conversations at Buddy Brew Coffee, you might consider talking with a hearing specialist.
Symptoms of Presbycusis
Age-related hearing loss is gradual and takes place in both ears. It’s prevalent as nearly 28.8 million Americans could benefit from hearing aids. There are a few key symptoms to observe if you may be experiencing age-related hearing loss.
Key symptoms:
- High-pitched sounds are hard to hear
- Conversations are difficult to understand in noisy locations
- Others’ speech sounds muffled or slurred, sounds like “s” or “th’ or hard to distinguish
- Tinnitus, or ringing in one or both ears, is present
If you think you’re experiencing presbycusis and talk to a hearing specialist, they will need to rule out other medical conditions. To confirm the condition, your doctor will check your ears and may perform an audiogram or hearing test.
Causes and Treatments of Presbycusis
Presbycusis can have multiple causes. As aging occurs, the body wears down, impacting receptors in the inner ear and breaking down nerve pathways to the brain. Other health and genetic factors can also impact age-related hearing loss.
Other factors include:
- Continuous exposure to loud noise over time
- Various health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease
- Side effects of medications
If you’ve been diagnosed with age-related hearing loss, it can feel discouraging, but receiving a diagnosis allows you several options for creating a better quality of life. Your hearing specialist will assist you with creating a treatment plan based on your hearing loss and personal preferences.
Treatment options may include:
- Hearing aids
- Assistive listening devices
- Techniques for preventing excess ear wax
There are ways you can work to prevent age-related hearing loss now. Monitor volume levels and reduce noise exposure at work and while participating in hobbies. You can also wear protective hearing devices to protect your hearing and prevent further damage.
If you have questions about presbycusis or suspect you or a loved one may have it, schedule an appointment with Kampsen Hearing.