As you’re getting ready to plan vacations, sporting events and day trips to Hillsborough River State Park this year, think about setting aside some time to learn about and connect with hearing loss and those experiencing it. Let’s take a look at a hearing loss overview and two 2024 opportunities to engage with the world of audiology.
An Overview of Hearing Loss
There are three types of hearing loss:
- Sensorineural: hearing loss of the inner ear
- Conductive: hearing loss of the outer or middle ear
- Mixed: a mixture of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss
Many factors can cause hearing loss, including aging, loud noise exposure, genetics, excess earwax, physical damage to the ear, ear infection, bone growths or tumors, ruptured eardrum and more. While you may not be able to protect against each of these causes, paying attention to the symptoms of hearing loss can help you combat its adverse effects early on. A few symptoms to look out for in yourself and your loved ones include:
- Muffled speech or other noises
- Trouble understanding speech when background noise is present
- Trouble hearing consonant
- Turning the TV up louder than is comfortable for others
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Withdrawal from social settings
Hearing loss is extremely common. By learning about its causes and symptoms, you can actively participate in the conversation and raise awareness for those experiencing it. Let’s take a look at two opportunities you have this year to engage with hearing loss.
1. World Hearing Day (March 3rd)
There are currently more than 1.5 billion people living with hearing loss in the world. World Hearing Day is the World Health Organization’s day to raise awareness about hearing loss and deafness prevention methods and promote ear and hearing care worldwide.
Take time on March 3rd to spread the word on the importance of hearing healthcare through your social media, email and word-of-mouth channels.
2. National Speech-Language-Hearing Month (May)
Formerly “Better Hearing and Speech Month,” ASHA’s National Speech-Language-Hearing Month focuses on raising awareness about speech disorders and encouraging people to think about their own hearing health.
Take time this May to schedule a hearing test for yourself and your loved ones. While you may not be experiencing any observable symptoms of hearing loss, establishing a baseline hearing will allow your provider to track your hearing over time, paving the way for early detection and treatment.
You can engage with hearing loss this year by contacting Kampsen Hearing today to schedule a hearing test with one of our trusted specialists.