Based on National Center for Health Statistics data, 37 million adults reported hearing loss in 2006. Hearing loss can negatively affect quality of life, but there are ways to improve hearing. This article discusses the causes of hearing loss and reviews potential treatments for hearing loss.

Chronic exposure to noise as well as normal wear and tear on the ear contributes to hearing loss. Most people with hearing loss have damage to a snail-shaped structure in the inner ear called the cochlea, which is responsible for the way sounds are heard. Broken or bent hairs in the cochlea or degeneration of nerve cells leads to inefficient transmission of electrical signals and subsequent hearing loss. Excess ear wax, ear infection, tumors of the ear, and a ruptured ear drum can all result in loss of hearing.

          Cochlea hair cells

Treatment for hearing loss to due ear wax buildup is through removal of the ear wax by a doctor. During this process, the doctor uses an eyedropper containing materials designed to allow the ear wax to easily come out of the ear (eg, mineral oil). This is then followed by warm water, which subsequently drains out of the ear, ideally with the ear wax, when the head is tilted. Additionally, the doctor might use a small instrument called a curette or a suction device to remove the wax.

Hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear is not reversible. However, hearing aids can be used to make hearing easier. Components of the hearing aid (ie, microphone and amplifier) allow for sounds to be better transmitted and heard. To cure severe hearing loss, a doctor might suggest a cochlear implant, which is surgically placed in the ear.

With the help of a doctor, hearing loss can be treated or at least better managed to optimize quality of life. In summary, treatments for hearing loss include ear wax removal, hearing aids, and, if hearing loss is severe, cochlear implants.

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