Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Hearing Loss: How it is Described

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) published an article on the configuration of hearing loss. ASHA states that this refers to “the degree and pattern of hearing loss across frequencies (tones), as illustrated in a graph called an audiogram.” Hearing loss can occur when only high tones or low tones are affected. As well as when the same amount of hearing loss occurs for both the low and the high tones.

The hearing loss can be described bilaterally or unilaterally. Bilaterally meaning both ears suffer from loss of hearing, unilateral hearing loss which means only one ear suffers from hearing damage. Hearing loss can also be described symmetrically or asymmetrically. Symmetrically meaning the degree of hearing loss is the same in both ears, whereas asymmetrically means that one ear might have a higher or lower level of hearing loss as compared to the other.

Hearing loss can either occur progressively or suddenly. If hearing loss occurs suddenly, you must consult with your local audiologist who will be able to diagnose you and help treat your condition, as well as prescribe the correct hearing aid to improve your quality of life.

Finally, hearing loss is described as fluctuating or stable. Fluctuating hearing loss means your hearing health might improve or deteriorate over time. If you would like to know more about hearing loss, visit your local Miami hearing center

No comments:

Post a Comment