Age-related hearing loss is a common condition in Singapore affecting many individuals over 60. As we age, changes in the intricate structures of the inner ear and the auditory nerve can cause hearing to decline gradually. Early detection and intervention are crucial for effectively managing this condition, helping individuals maintain their ability to communicate and stay connected.
What Is Age-Related Hearing Loss?
Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a gradual, sensorineural hearing loss that is part of the normal ageing process. This condition occurs when the cochlea, the sensory organ of hearing, is damaged.
Presbycusis typically affects both ears, and its impact is often more pronounced with high-frequency sounds like a doorbell or microwave ringing. This makes it particularly challenging to comprehend speech, especially in noisy environments. The severity of this hearing loss can range from mild to profound.
What Causes Age-Related Hearing Loss?
Age-related hearing loss results from a combination of factors that affect the auditory system as individuals age. The primary causes of age-related hearing loss include:
- Changes Within the Inner Ear: The inner ear (cochlea) is lined with tiny sensory hair cells (stereocilia), which can become damaged or die off over time. Since they do not regenerate, individuals may experience reduced sensitivity and an inability to detect specific sounds, particularly in the high-frequency range.
- Alterations in the Middle Ear: Problems in the middle ear can interfere with the transmission of sound waves from the tiny bones (ossicles) to the inner ear, leading to presbycusis. This may include abnormal bone growth (otosclerosis) or middle ear infections.
- Nerve Pathway Changes to the Brain: The auditory nerve can undergo age-related changes; some nerve fibres may deteriorate, or the nerve’s ability to relay signals may diminish. These changes can alter the way the brain processes and interprets sound information, leading to difficulties with speech recognition and comprehension.
Beyond these, other factors may also exacerbate the age-related hearing loss, including:
- Long-term exposure to loud noises
- Genetic predisposition
- Underlying health conditions (e.g., heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes)
- Reduced blood flow to the inner ear
- Certain ototoxic medications (e.g., chemotherapy drugs, NSAIDs, and aminoglycoside antibiotics)
- Infections and smoking
What Are the Symptoms of Age-Related Hearing Loss?
Age-related hearing loss develops gradually, and many individuals are unaware of its progression until it begins to interfere with their everyday activities or when a friend or family member brings it to their attention.
Typical symptoms that may indicate presbycusis include:
- Perceiving speech as muffled or slurred
- Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds
- Trouble understanding conversations over background noise
- An increased tendency to turn up the volume of electronic devices
- Perception of certain sounds as overly loud or annoying
- Ringing sensations in one or both ears (tinnitus)
How Is Age-Related Hearing Loss Diagnosed?
When noticing signs of age-related hearing loss, it is advisable to consult a doctor. They can conduct a physical examination of the ears using a lighted, magnifying device (otoscope) to inspect the ear canal and eardrum for any signs of damage, infection, or blockages that may contribute to hearing impairment.
Following a physical examination, individuals are often referred to an audiologist for further assessment, including an audiometry evaluation. The results will be recorded on an audiogram, which graphically displays hearing sensitivity across different sound frequencies. This test helps determine the extent and nature of hearing loss.
What Are the Treatment Options for Age-Related Hearing Loss?
Since age-related hearing loss is a sensorineural disorder, there is currently no cure available to reverse this condition. However, doctors may recommend several interventions to manage the condition and support hearing. These include:
- Hearing Aids: Hearing aids are the most common devices used for addressing presbycusis. These devices amplify sounds to help individuals hear and understand speech.
- Assistive Devices: Devices such as telephone amplifiers and speech-to-text technology can help individuals with presbycusis communicate more effectively in specific situations and environments.
- Speech Reading Training: Some individuals with age-related hearing loss may benefit from training in speech reading, also called lip reading. This technique helps recognise spoken words by observing the mouth movements of the speaker.
- Cochlear Implants: For individuals with severe hearing loss who do not benefit from hearing aids, cochlear implants may be an option. These devices bypass the damaged inner parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
What Are the Potential Consequences of Hearing Loss?
Age-related hearing loss can have significant effects on an individual's quality of life, including:
- Communication Difficulties: Hearing loss can make it difficult for individuals to engage in conversations and participate in social activities. Consequently, this can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and reduced involvement in daily life.
- Social Withdrawal or Depression: A hearing loss may result in social withdrawal and isolation. Over time, these factors may contribute to depression and anxiety.
- Safety Concerns: Impaired hearing can compromise one's ability to perceive warning signals, such as emergency alarms or approaching vehicles. This can, in turn, increase safety risks due to reduced auditory awareness.
How Can Age-Related Hearing Loss Be Prevented?
While it is not possible to prevent age-related hearing loss, you can slow down the onset and progression of hearing loss or reduce the risk of developing severe presbycusis with several preventive measures, such as:
- Safe Listening Practices: Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises whenever possible. You can protect your hearing by wearing earplugs or other ear protection when operating machinery or in noisy environments such as concerts and building sites.
- Hearing Evaluations: Regular hearing evaluation is essential, particularly for high-risk individuals, to help detect early signs of hearing loss and allow for timely intervention.
If you or your loved ones are experiencing hearing problems, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. Contact us at 6738 1616 to schedule a consultation with our experienced specialist in Singapore.
