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Hearing impairment

What Is Hearing Loss?

The normal hearing threshold ranges from 0 to 20 dB HL. At a hearing threshold of 60–70 dB HL, normal speech may no longer be audible, while at thresholds above 90–100 dB HL, even loud shouting may not be heard.

Hearing loss is classified according to its underlying cause:

  • Hipoacusia conductiva/mecánica

    Conductive hearing loss is caused by a mechanical problem that prevents sound from being transmitted effectively to the inner ear.

  • Sensorineural Hearing Loss

    Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by cochlear or retrocochlear dysfunction and may also affect the quality of hearing, particularly speech comprehension.

  • Mixed Hearing Loss

    Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.

    Hearing loss may be congenital or acquired.

Incidence and Prevalence

  • Approximately 20 to 30 people per 1,000 patients seek medical attention for hearing loss each year.
  • Most people experience temporary hearing loss as a result of earwax build-up or upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold.
  • Permanent hearing loss is more commonly caused by noise-induced damage than by conditions affecting the outer or inner ear.
  • The incidence of hearing loss increases with age.
  • The prevalence of hearing impairment is approximately 0.8% among men aged 18 to 24.
  • Among men aged 75 to 79, the prevalence of hearing loss is approximately 18%.

What Could Be Causing Your Hearing Loss?

  • Acute otitis media
  • Barotrauma
  • Earwax build-up
  • Otosclerosis
  • Age-related hearing loss
  • A foreign object in the ear canal
  • Noise-induced hearing damage
  • Ménière’s disease
  • A tumour affecting the auditory nerve
  • Other underlying causes

Who Can Help You?

One of our ear, nose and throat specialists can carry out a comprehensive examination to determine the correct diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

We follow standardised clinical procedures and use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to ensure that every patient receives a thorough and timely assessment.

 

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