Often others notice it before us, yet the symptoms are there and can be identified easily.
In Italy, there are 7 million people who do not feel well and every day, according to data from the Ministry of Health released on the occasion of World Deafness Day, 30 audiological visits end with a diagnosis of hearing loss more or less important. And this is not a problem exclusive to the elderly: more than 40% of those affected are between 60 and 69 years old, but the first symptoms can emerge as early as around the age of 45.
Sorry, can you repeat?
The signs of a decrease in hearing abilities occur when, for example, others point out that the volume of our television or radio is excessively high. Or, if we begin to ask others too often to repeat what has been said or to speak more slowly. Or, again, it is we who raise our voices because we can no longer hear it well.
What to watch out for
The symptoms of an onset of deafness, which can be mono or bilateral, that is, from one or both ears, are different depending on the triggering cause.
The sensation of having muffled hearing may be due to a trivial “mechanical” problem, the classic earwax plug that prevents sounds and noises from arriving adequately. In this case, mild pain may also be present, mainly due to pressure, and removing the cap solves the problem.
Excessive sensitivity to noise can also indicate hearing impairment as well as hearing non-existent sounds, such as buzzing, hissing or whistling, in the background. Experiencing dizziness, frequent headaches or a feeling of ear pressure are other symptoms that should not be underestimated.
A matter of decibels
Hearing loss with advancing age is a physiological factor and the extent of the problem still has a genetic component. What causes mild, medium or more severe deafness in young people?
A French study conducted among adolescents blames music heard on headphones or headphones. According to this research, it would take just one hour of listening at a volume equal to or greater than 100 decibels to cause tinnitus – the constant whistling or popping noise in the ears) or even deafness.
Is it possible to prevent?
A correct lifestyle is always common sense advice, but preventing hearing impairment is not possible because there are so many causes that can determine them: from stress to disorders related to cardiovascular circulation, up to diabetes.
Repeated ear inflammations, for example important otitis, and even tonsillitis in the long run can affect hearing function. When, on the other hand, deafness occurs suddenly after a trauma, if you are returning from an air trip or if you have done scuba diving, it is good to report it to the doctor or, better, to the emergency room staff.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
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