Unfortunately there is currently no cure for noise-induced hearing loss. Although it is a permanent condition, there are effective treatments to help manage the symptoms.
So why is there no cure? To understand this, it’s essential to take a look at how noise- induced hearing loss is caused and which parts of the ear become damaged as a result of it.
Noise-induced hearing loss is a permanent hearing loss caused by one of two types of exposure to noise:
- Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise where the hearing deteriorates gradually over time, for example due to working with loud machinery.
- Exposure to an excessively loud noise such as an explosion.
When this exposure happens the tiny hair cells in the inner ear become damaged and their ability to pick up and transmit sound to the brain is reduced. Unfortunately, once damaged, these hair cells cannot be restored.
What treatments are available?
The best way to discover the treatments that could help you is to speak to an audiologist, however as an overview the following can be effective options.
Hearing aids
One of the best treatments is an expertly-fitted hearing aid. This will not only help to make sound louder, it will also reduce disruptive noise from your surroundings and increase sounds needed for communication. Modern hearing aids also come in many styles and designs, with some models so discreet you can barely see them in the ear. Here at the Hearing Centre our audiologists can recommend the perfect hearing aid from you from our wide range which includes invisible in the canal (IIC) hearing aids, which combine the ultimate in discretion with the latest in technology.
Prevention is key
Ultimately the best way to tackle noise-induced hearing loss is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. This is achievable when it comes to exposure to noise over time through measures like wearing appropriate personal protective equipment in a noisy workplace or opting for a noise cancelling headphones so you can reduce music volume to safe levels. Indeed, by law your employer must provide you with the appropriate ear protection if you are exposed to loud noise at work.
It is also worth noting that researchers are always working on possible treatments for noise-induced hearing loss, so in the future there may be exciting advances on what can be offered currently.
Speak to a specialist about your options
At The Hearing Centre we use our state of the art equipment and specialist skills to diagnose your problem in order to recommend the best course of action to help reduce symptoms and restore quality of life.
We can also recommend the best hearing protection products for your needs to help prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
To book a consultation or for more information email us at info@hearingcentre.com or call us today on 0116 254 3909.
