Medically reviewed by Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD, Harvard Medical School | Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit, MI on January 17th, 2024.
This condition prevents hearing sounds below 70-90 decibels, meaning normal conversation at 60 decibels becomes inaudible without amplification—affecting roughly 2-3 people per 1,000 births.
Prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 decibels causes permanent damage, while ototoxic medications like aminoglycoside antibiotics and high-dose aspirin can destroy inner ear cells.
Newborns should receive screening by 1 month of age, with hearing aids fitted by 6 months to prevent language development delays during critical early years.
Cochlear implants bypass damaged hair cells entirely by directly stimulating the auditory nerve with electrical signals, requiring surgery but providing clearer sound than traditional hearing aids.
Bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA) transmit sound vibrations through skull bone to the inner ear, ideal for conductive hearing loss or single-sided deafness when conventional aids fail.
Severe hearing loss is a condition that affects people of all ages, making it difficult to hear even loud sounds or normal speech. While it can be challenging, there are many ways to manage severe hearing loss and improve quality of life.
Severe hearing loss means you can hear some sounds, but very poorly. You may not be able to hear someone speaking, even if they are using a normal voice. Hearing loss can happen suddenly or gradually, in one or both ears, and be temporary or permanent.
Severe hearing loss can be caused by various factors, including:
Genetic factors
Exposure to loud noises
Certain diseases and infections
Ear canal blockages
Head injuries
Certain medications
Signs of severe hearing loss in children may include:
Delayed speech development
Inattention to sounds or when called
Poor school performance
In adults, symptoms may include:
Difficulty hearing in noisy environments or group conversations
Frequently thinking others are mumbling
Trouble hearing on the phone
Listening to TV or radio at high volumes
Early diagnosis is crucial for managing severe hearing loss, especially in children. Newborn hearing screenings are often required by law. If you suspect hearing loss in yourself or your child, consult your doctor or a hearing specialist (otolaryngologist or audiologist).
Diagnostic tests may include:
Pure tone audiometry
Speech audiometry
Tympanometry
Treatment for severe hearing loss typically involves using technology to improve hearing, such as:
Hearing aids: Devices that amplify sounds and reduce background noise
Bone conduction implants: Surgically placed devices that transmit sound vibrations through the skull bone to the inner ear
Cochlear implants: Devices that bypass damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve
In addition to technological solutions, therapy and support services can help individuals with severe hearing loss adapt and communicate effectively.
Coping with severe hearing loss can be challenging, but there are ways to make life easier:
Work with therapists to learn communication strategies and assistive technologies
Advocate for accommodations in school and the workplace
Utilize hearing assistive technology systems (HATS) for alarms, phones, and television
Arrange your home to optimize sound and reduce noise
Seek support from counselors, therapists, and support groups
With proper treatment and support, individuals with severe hearing loss can lead independent, fulfilling lives. The key is to work closely with your healthcare team to find the best solutions for your unique needs and to start treatment as early as possible.
Remember, you are not alone. Connect with others living with severe hearing loss and seek helpful information from patient groups like the Hearing Loss Association of America.
Early intervention within the first 6 months dramatically improves outcomes, especially for children whose language development depends on hearing during critical early years. Modern implant technology can restore functional hearing even in severe cases where traditional hearing aids prove inadequate. If you're struggling with conversation difficulties or suspect hearing loss, Doctronic can help you understand your symptoms and next steps quickly.
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