Bilateral Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Bilateral hearing loss, more simply described as hearing that affects both ears, is naturally an incredibly challenging and stressful experience. First off, it is worth stressing that you are not alone if you or a loved one is navigating this.
The American Academy of Audiology estimates that 38 million Americans, or 12% of the population, experience this type of hearing impairment. This figure rises to one in four people when you account for over 75s.
As we age, our auditory health is more likely to falter. However, you can do something about it.
With the right approach, support network, and resources, you can limit the impact and retain your independence and sense of self. Here's what you need to know about bilateral hearing loss.
What Is Bilateral Hearing Loss?
Bilateral hearing loss refers to hearing impairment in both ears. It can affect individuals differently, with some experiencing gradual hearing loss and others having sudden declines in hearing ability.
Bilateral hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including age-related changes, medical conditions, and environmental factors.
This type of hearing loss can manifest as either conductive or sensorineural hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss is when the middle or outer part of the ear is not functioning as it should. Sensorineural hearing loss, meanwhile, happens when the auditory nerve or the inner ear sustains some sort of damage.
Understanding the type of hearing loss is key to determining the best course of treatment.
Causes of Bilateral Hearing Loss
Bilateral hearing loss can arise from a variety of causes, including aging, medical conditions, or exposure to loud noises. Common causes of bilateral hearing loss include age-related changes, noise exposure, and medical conditions like ear infections or diseases.
Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is one of the most common causes, with the gradual degeneration of the inner ear's hair cells over time. Loud noises, either from prolonged exposure to industrial sounds or music, can also damage these cells, leading to sensorineural hearing loss.
Other medical conditions, such as infections or certain medications, can affect hearing in both ears.
Symptoms of Bilateral Hearing Loss
The symptoms of bilateral hearing loss can vary, but most individuals will notice difficulty hearing in both ears. Common signs of bilateral hearing loss include difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, and asking others to repeat themselves.
People with bilateral hearing loss may also have trouble hearing high-pitched sounds, like birds chirping, or may need to turn up the volume on the TV or radio. This can cause frustration, difficulty participating in conversations, and even withdrawal from social situations.
Diagnosing Bilateral Hearing Loss
Diagnosing bilateral hearing loss requires a professional evaluation by an audiologist, who will conduct various hearing tests. A thorough hearing test can help determine the type and severity of bilateral hearing loss.
Audiologists typically use pure-tone audiometry, a test where tones of varying pitches and volumes are played through headphones, to determine the softest sounds a person can hear. Additionally, speech testing and tympanometry may be conducted to evaluate speech understanding and middle ear function.
Treatment Options for Bilateral Hearing Loss
There are several treatment options available for those dealing with bilateral hearing loss, ranging from hearing aids to surgical interventions. Hearing aids are the most common solution for improving hearing in individuals with bilateral hearing loss.
Hearing aids work by amplifying sound and making it easier for individuals to hear speech and other important sounds. There are various styles of hearing aids, including behind-the-ear and in-the-ear models, to suit different preferences.
For those with severe bilateral hearing loss, cochlear implants may be considered, as they help bypass damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
Here are the main treatment options:
- Hearing aids for sound amplification
- Cochlear implants for severe loss
- Bone-anchored hearing systems
- Assistive listening devices
Choosing the right treatment depends on the severity of the hearing loss and the individual's lifestyle and preferences.
Managing Bilateral Hearing Loss with Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are one of the most effective solutions for managing bilateral hearing loss.
These devices amplify sounds and can be adjusted to focus on specific frequencies. Hearing aids are customized to fit the individual's hearing loss and provide significant improvement in hearing ability.
Modern hearing aids are equipped with features such as noise reduction, feedback suppression, and Bluetooth compatibility to improve sound clarity in different environments. Regular visits to the audiologist are important to adjust settings and ensure the hearing aid remains effective as hearing needs change over time.
Here are some key benefits of hearing aids:
- Improved speech understanding
- Enhanced hearing in noisy environments
- Comfortable and discreet options
- Customizable to individual needs
- Long-term hearing health support
Hearing aids are a crucial part of managing bilateral hearing loss and improving quality of life.
Coping with the Emotional Impact of Hearing Loss
The emotional impact of bilateral hearing loss can be profound, often leading to frustration, isolation, and even depression. Coping with the emotional challenges of hearing loss involves seeking support and finding strategies to maintain emotional well-being.
For many seniors, feeling left out of conversations or asking others to repeat themselves repeatedly can be demoralizing.
Talking to a counselor, joining a support group, or seeking professional help can assist in managing the emotional stress that often accompanies hearing loss. Staying socially active and engaging in hobbies or activities that don't rely on hearing can also provide a sense of normalcy.
Discovery Village Trinity Offers Senior Living with Your Independence in Mind
Bilateral hearing loss presents no shortage of personal and practical challenges, not least to your cherished sense of independence. However, a combination of treatment, technology, patience, and peer support will help you adapt and thrive.
If you or a loved one is seeking a senior living community that will take your unique needs into account, Discovery Village Trinity awaits. We provide active independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Our serene, landscape community in Trinity, FL offers amenities, activities, and a well-resourced team whose mission is to assist you with daily living in a way that enables you to be as independent as you can and enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Don't take our word for it. Get in touch to book a tour and see for yourself.