If your hearing loss is of the type known as ‘conductive', the problem is likely to be in the outer or middle ear, and may well be treatable. However, sensorineural hearing loss, caused by changes in the inner ear, is a more probable diagnosis. Many people find their hearing becoming less acute once they are past the age of 50, and a majority of those over 70 have some degree of sensorineural hearing loss. This happens as the cochlea in the inner ear becomes less effective at picking up sound, especially high-pitched ones, and it is often difficult to follow a conversation in a noisy environment.

Senorineural hearing loss is assessed by audiometry: you listen through earphones to sounds of different frequencies and volumes, and the equipment records how loud a sound must be at any given frequency for you to be able to hear it.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for sensorineural hearing loss. However, many people, especially those who have what is called ‘presbyacusis' – age-related decline in hearing – can benefit from using a hearing aid. These are battery-powered and are designed to amplify sounds by means of a tiny microphone, amplifier and speaker. It is essential that they are properly fitted and adjusted to match precisely the particular pattern of hearing loss of the individual concerned. Even when this is done, most people find they need to persevere for some time before the notice any real improvement in their ability to hear using the aid. Many aids are available on the NHS, including digital hearing aids. Ask your doctor for details of your nearest NHS Hearing Aid Centre or contact the RNID who have a comprehensive range of information about hearing aids.

RNID, 19-23, Featherstone Street, London EC1Y 8SL; Tel: 020 7296 8000.

By Saga Health News
http://www.saga.co.uk/health_news/article/814EBF81-F2DC-11D5-B882-00508BAEC55C.asp?bhcp=1