Approximately 28 million Americans suffer from hearing loss (almost 1 in 10). One of the fastest growing segments of this population is teenagers. About 6.5 million teens in the U.S. have hearing loss and many experts attribute this increase to the use of personal music devices.
Kevin Wilson, M.D., Ear, Nose and Throat Physician at University of Utah Hospital and South Jordan Clinic
What are the symptoms of hearing loss?
· Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
· Turning your ear toward a sound to hear it better
· Keep the volume on your radio or TV at a level that others say is too loud
· Have pain or ringing in the ears
What are the causes of hearing loss?
· Ear infections
· Head injury
· Birth defects
· Medications
· Diseases (measles, mumps, meningitis, Menieres)
· Aging
· Loud noise
When should you see a professional and seek treatment?
· Anyone suffering from symptoms of hearing loss should seek help.
· An ear nose and throat doctor (otolaryngologist) can help determine if a person has hearing loss, what might be causing it, and if it can be treated.
A note about spring allergies:
· Spring is allergy season. Nearly 10-30% of adults suffer from hay fever and about 40% of children have these allergies.
· Allergies can have an impact on productivity and performance at work or in school.
· Severe allergies resulting in chronic ear infections can contribute to hearing loss.
· An ear, nose and throat specialist can help people who suffer from allergies by identifying the source of the allergy and recommending treatment.
· Treatments for allergies include medications, shots or drops.
University of Utah Health Care’s Ear, Nose and Throat Center will hold a Hearing Loss Open House on April 28, May 2, and May 6. The event is free and includes hearing screenings and individual consultations.
For more information about the Open House or to schedule an appointment with an ear, nose and throat physician, call 801 581-8915.
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