Hearing Loss Symptoms

Maximize your payout with our efficient, trustworthy service. No hassle, just quick cash for your unwanted vehicles in St. Louis.

Picture of Tracy Hayden
Tracy Hayden

Hearing loss is one of the biggest health concerns in the U.S. It is the third most commonly reported physical condition, following arthritis and heart disease. It affects roughly 20 percent of the American population and can strike people of all ages.

The most common causes of hearing loss are noise exposure and aging.

What are the symptoms of Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss is typically a progressive condition that worsens over time. Symptoms appear so gradually, you may be completely unaware of the loss for some time. Even when hearing loss is suspected, it takes an average of seven years for a person to seek medical treatment.

Knowing the signs is helpful in spurring you to take action sooner.

What Are the Types of Hearing Loss?

Treatment will depend on your type and degree of hearing loss.

Sensorineural hearing loss involves a problem with the inner ear, and is frequently referred to as “nerve deafness.”

Causes of sensorineural hearing loss

  • Noise exposure.
  • Hereditary and genetic conditions.
  • Head trauma.
  • Aging (presbycusis).
  • Viral disease.
  • Autoimmune disorders of the ear. 
  • Meniere’s disease.
  • Malformation or abnormality of the inner ear.
  • Otosclerosis.
  • Tumors.
  • Uncontrolled diabetes. 

Sensorineural hearing loss can sometimes be treated with medication (corticosteroids) or surgery. However, this type of loss is most frequently treated with hearing aids.

Conductive hearing loss occurs when there are problems in the outer ear, ear canal, eardrum or middle ear.

Causes of conductive hearing loss include:

  • Ear infection.
  • Fluid in the ears.
  • Malformation or abnormalities of the outer or middle ear.
  • Impacted earwax.
  • Foreign object in the ear.
  • Allergies.
  • Perforated eardrum.
  • Otosclerosis.
  • Benign tumors.

Conductive hearing loss is often correctable with surgery or medication (typically antibiotics). It is important to see an otolaryngologist (ENT) when any of the above are present.

Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both types. Treatment might involve a combination of medication, surgery and/or hearing aids.

In addition to the different types of hearing loss, it is important to consider the extent to which a patient is experiencing symptoms. Hearing loss is further categorized as being either monaural or binaural.

Unilateral hearing loss affects one ear only, while bilateral hearing loss affects both ears.

Patients with unilateral hearing loss have normal hearing in one ear and impaired hearing in the other; they have difficulty hearing on one side and localizing sound. Individuals with bilateral hearing loss have impaired hearing in both ears. The condition is most often treated with hearing aids (two are more effective than one) or cochlear implants. A majority of hearing loss is bilateral. 

Any of the following might indicate hearing loss:

  • Frequently asking people to repeat what they have said.
  • Feeling like others mumble when they speak.
  • Having difficulty following conversations in which background noise is present.
  • Turning up the volume on the television or radio.
  • Avoiding social gatherings in noisy places.

Often, a family member or friend will be the first to notice a hearing problem. Since treatment is most effective when begun early, if you think you might have diminished hearing, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with an audiologist. The sooner, the better!

How Is Hearing Loss Diagnosed?

In order to diagnose hearing loss, your doctor will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and give you a physical examination followed by a hearing evaluation consisting of a series of audiological tests.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common type experienced by younger individuals. It can be caused by exposure to a single loud sound, such as a gunshot or explosion, or by continuous exposure to loud noise over a period of time. Other groups that can be affected by loud noise are those in the military and industrial workers.

When are noises loud enough to damage hearing?

When sounds exceed 85 decibels (dB) they are considered hazardous to your hearing health. The louder the noise, and/or the longer the exposure, the more likely that noise will cause hearing loss. Continuous exposure to volume levels that high causes permanent damage to the nerve cells in your ears.

Activities that put people at risk for noise-induced hearing loss include hunting, riding a motorcycle, listening to music at high volumes, playing in a band and attending rock concerts. An estimated 15 percent of Americans aged 20 to 69 have hearing loss that may have been caused by noise exposure. This type of hearing loss can be prevented by wearing earplugs and protective devices.

Hearing Loss Prevention

Protecting your ears is the key to hearing loss prevention and conditions like tinnitus. If your job exposes you to hazardous noises, make sure proper safety equipment is provided, and that it meets state and federal regulations. Hearing protection – earplugs and earmuffs – is essential when working around loud equipment. It’s always a good idea to bring along earplugs if you’re participating in a noisy recreational activity (e.g., a football game or rock concert).

How can you prevent hearing loss?

At home, limit your exposure to noisy activities, and keep the volume down – on the television, stereo and especially when it comes to personal listening devices like MP3 players or smartphones.

Prevent other types of hearing loss by refraining from inserting cotton swabs or other objects into your ears, blowing your nose gently through both nostrils and quitting smoking. Studies show those who use tobacco are more likely to suffer from hearing loss.

Regardless of your age, have your hearing tested regularly. Early detection is key. While noise-related hearing loss can’t be reversed, you can still take steps to avoid further damage to your hearing.

Take control of your hearing health today!

Get personalized care from expert audiologists at Big Sky Audiology

Additional Services from Big Sky Audiology

Hearing Protection Icon White

Hearing Tests

Comprehensive hearing assessments to identify and address your unique needs.

Custom Hearing Aids Icon White

Hearing Aids

Personalized fittings and adjustments for optimal hearing aid performance.

hearing aid repair white

Hearing Aid Repair

Expert hearing aid repair services to restore clarity and enhance device longevity.

Tinnitus Icon White

Hearing Implants

Advanced hearing implant solutions to improve sound clarity and hearing experience.

ear cleaning white

Ear Cleaning

Gentle and thorough ear cleaning services to remove buildup and improve hearing.

Ongoing Care Icon White

Ongoing Care

Continuous support and follow-up to ensure your long-term hearing health.

Jerry Hanson
Jerry Hanson
1739227263
Tuned me up and ticked me up. great experience.
Mitch Gallagher
Mitch Gallagher
1739130520
The staff at Big Sky Audiology, are friendly, knowledgeable, very professional, efficient, and really pay attention to their patients in a very special way.
Joseph J. Haubrich
Joseph J. Haubrich
1737138293
Very nice people. I am glad I choose these people to get my hearing aids. I would highly recommend them.
Kim Wright
Kim Wright
1737062339
Staff is very nice and helpful. They took great care of my mom!
Kerri Tallerico
Kerri Tallerico
1736964489
We have always great, friendly service. Everyone there is very knowledgeable.
Bruce Green
Bruce Green
1736281302
Knowledgeable and very accommodating staff there. I am well pleased with my hearing aids, as i hear a lot better now than before i received them.
Belinda Cavanaugh
Belinda Cavanaugh
1735841697
We are always greeted and get taken care of.
Jennifer Steglich
Jennifer Steglich
1735483871
I would recommend Big Sky Audiology to all my family and friends. They are prompt, professional, kind and thorough. They actually care about their customers and it shows.
Mike & Diana Foster
Mike & Diana Foster
1735323887
Great experience. I've had hearing loss and exams for many years. Learned more from this exam than any other. Quite a knowledgeable group. Thank you!
Lacey Cadwalader
Lacey Cadwalader
1735149980
Took my 6 year old daughter there for a hearing test, they were very nice and thorough. Made my daughter very comfortable. Highly recommend!
Johnnie
Johnnie
1734709912
From 1st step in the door, staff were amazing. Brandy completed most thorough testing & explained results & then recommended best product for hearing ranges. Coordinated with our insurance on the spot for max coverage. Absolutely best service we've received - put the other places to shame.
Julie Guffey
Julie Guffey
1733869685
Friendly professional service.
Jennifer Hull
Jennifer Hull
1733777347
From the moment I opened the door and walked in to the final review of my testing, the atmosphere and customer service and interactions were inviting, engaging, and client focused.I felt calm and relaxed in what could be an intimidating and unknown situation for many people.Professional. Supportive- not on the clock or rushed- I would recommend Big Sky Audiology to anyone with hearing/ear needs. Very timely with results being sent to provider in less than 24hours. Well done!!
Cory Bruce
Cory Bruce
1733503501
Fantastic staff and professionals - the communication is awesome and they have a real passion for hearing health
Chuck Dickerson
Chuck Dickerson
1732052726
Awesome Audiology office with great employees, and the office is spotless. The employees are very efficient at what they do and they make you feel important and care about your needs. Just think if I had been able to hear I would never have known about them!
jennifer guptill
jennifer guptill
1731802882
The Dr was very polite and gave me lots of information on my issues. Helped me pick out the hearing aids that would help me the best for my problem. I definitely recommend them.
Cynthia Johnson
Cynthia Johnson
1731624946
The Big Sky team is amazing. Excellent and professional care is always present.Can’t hear well?GO! TO! BIGSKY!
Sean Waters
Sean Waters
1731517244
Brandy has been awesome to work with. She has been very helpful with solving my needs.
Todd B
Todd B
1731003838
Very clean location with nice and polite staff. Was easy to get in and tested. They were clear on what was going on with my hearing with options.
Gary Swisse
Gary Swisse
1729872980
Unbelievable new location and it is absolutely amazing. So proud. The same amazing doctor, Dr Hayden. Same with the fantastic front office gals Tina and Paxton, you must stop in and hi!
Kathleen DeFrate
Kathleen DeFrate
1729786710
Staff were welcoming and efficient. Brandy was very knowledgeable and understanding of my concerns. Very happy I choose Big Sky Adiology.
Jason Krum
Jason Krum
1729099729
Very knowledgeable and helpful. Definitely not a pushy sales gimmick, they actually want to help!
Jacque Garcia
Jacque Garcia
1727974020
Absolutely amazing place to go for hearing issues! Friendly front desk staff, amazing techs! Could not be happier! The doctor is amazing!
Nancy Cook
Nancy Cook
1727825490
Dr Hayden and staff are professional, welcoming and patient. I am grateful for this experience.
Amber Hermance
Amber Hermance
1727365272
Everyone who works here is absolutely amazing, they are professional and personable. Dr. Hayden answers questions thoroughly and doesn’t rush. Dr. Hayden and the staff have helped me make informed decisions on how to handle my hearing loss. I will go no where else when it comes to the care I need for my hearing needs.
Cherryl Kramer
Cherryl Kramer
1727284362
I just love coming to see Dr. Haden and her staff. There so friendly and helpful. Treat you more like family then a patient.
Betti Hinrichs
Betti Hinrichs
1727191959
Very good experience. Welcoming place.
Roxie Zeiler
Roxie Zeiler
1726588571
From checking in to checking out my experience was beyond wonderful. So friendly and caring. They actually cared about me and my needs. I don’t remember everyone’s names but I’d give them a 10-10
Sandy Olson
Sandy Olson
1726073775
My experience here at Big Sky Audioligy is very positive! A great bunch of friendly, caring, dedicated gals and I am very grateful for themand the way they treat you. I highly recommend them to anyone with hearing losses. Go see them, they will treat you with.compassion and a very caring way
Fred Holland
Fred Holland
1725919779
The staff is friendly and fun, Dr Haden is the best always goes the extra mile to explains things.I would highly recommend them.
Marylin Lingle
Marylin Lingle
1725505509
Bill Skidmore
Bill Skidmore
1725483147
Absolutely amazing staff to work with.
Florian Sherman
Florian Sherman
1724961610
Duane Tuhy
Duane Tuhy
1724198131
The staff at Big Sky Audiology Clinic are amazingly friendly and professional every time I am in their office. Brandy helped me out with some issues with my hearing aids to a point where, most of the time, I don’t even realize I am wearing them.I would highly recommend this firm for your hearing needs.
E Carter
E Carter
1723741588
Very professional and friendly
Doug Goodheart
Doug Goodheart
1723738691
They are very helpful and personal. I would recommend them to anyone who has hearing concerns
Jim Swain
Jim Swain
1722959324
My audiology exam by Brandi was very pleasant , professional and informative. She explained my diagnosis and treatment options thoroughly and patiently. Thank you.
Kym Jensen
Kym Jensen
1722542502
Fred Love
Fred Love
1722539102
Great experience, knowledgeable, friendly.
David B. Richardson
David B. Richardson
1722336158
Dr. Hayden and staff are awesome to work with. They have been taking care of all of my hearing loss needs for over 6 years.I have used other hearing aid facilities in Billings but have not measured up Big Sky Audiology. They are prompt, courteous and professional.
Kheely Knisley
Kheely Knisley
1721254704
We are from Illinois and had an issue with my grandpa's hearing aids. The staff here is amazing and helped us with everything!!! Thank you all so much!
Jerry Narancich
Jerry Narancich
1720806242
Gina Morasse
Gina Morasse
1720781455
Very knowledgeable and professional.
Loretta Howard
Loretta Howard
1718951179
Everything about my experience was positive!
×
js_loader
Skip to content