Hearing Health Problems Many people are aware that their hearing has deteriorated but are reluctant to seek help. Perhaps they don't want to acknowledge the problem, are embarrassed by what they see as a weakness, or believe that they can "get by" without using a hearing aid. And, unfortunately, too many wait years, even decades, to address the effects of hearing loss before getting treatment. But time and again, research demonstrates the considerable effects of hearing loss on development as well as negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects of untreated hearing loss. Each can have far-reaching implications that go well beyond hearing alone. In fact, those who have difficulty hearing can experience such distorted and incomplete communication that it seriously impacts their professional and personal lives, at times leading to isolation and withdrawal.Here are five common hearing health issues that occur in adults and children. 1. Allergies and hearing health Itchy, swollen eyes and a stuffy nose aren’t the only symptoms of allergies – those same symptoms can show up in the ears. Allergies to pollen, grass, pet dander, dust mites and even food can cause a reaction in the ear. Most allergies affect the middle ear, clogging the Eustachian tube (which serves to keep the middle ear clean and dry). You may experience popping, a stuffy feeling or even dizziness or ringing in the ears, along with trouble hearing. These are symptoms of conductive hearing loss, which usually is temporary, like most allergic reactions. A medical professional can diagnose the problem. 2. Middle ear infections The most common cause of earaches is an ear infection or otitis media. It occurs most often in children but can occur in adults. Colds, the flu and respiratory infections are often the cause of an ear infection. Children experience ear infections because the Eustachian tube may be immature and can become blocked due to germs or moisture.If untreated, an ear infection can
lead to a ruptured eardrum or hearing loss. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection. 3. Swimmer’s ear When water is trapped in the ear canal, bacteria can grow. This may lead to irritation and infection of the ear canal and the outer ear. And it’s not just limited to swimmers! If water is trapped in the ear after a shower or a bath, it can lead to infection. Over-the-counter medicine may help or a visit to a health care professional may be necessary. 4. TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder The temporomandibular joint works to move your jaw. But when popping or clicking noises, pressure and pain are associated with chewing or jaw movement, it’s an indication of a TMJ problem. Because your ears are so closely connected, they can be affected. If the jaw joint is chronically swelling, this puts pressure on the inner ear, causing pain. Untreated, it can lead to hearing loss. 5. Perforated eardrum Your eardrum is a thin membrane that separates the ear canal and the middle ear. A perforated eardrum occurs when something pokes a hole or a tear in the membrane. A loud noise or a hard hit to the ear also can perforate the eardrum. Symptoms include pain, hearing loss and possible bleeding. Serious problems can occur if a perforated eardrum gets wet or is exposed to bacteria. It may heal on its own or sometimes surgery is necessary. It’s important to take care of your ears just as you do with the rest of your body. Often, ear problems can heal on their own but sometimes a visit to the hearing care provider is needed to deal with hearing health issues.