"Hearing plays an important role in how we communicate, learn, and stay connected to the people and sounds around us," says Sabrina G. Olivia, AuD, CCC-A, Audiology at ARC Medical Plaza Specialty in Cedar Park. "Hearing loss can happen at any age, and it may develop gradually or happen suddenly."
What is hearing loss?
Hearing loss means having difficulty hearing some or all sounds. It can affect one or both ears and range from mild to severe. Loss of hearing can have many causes, including aging, illness, injury, genetics, certain medications, loud noise, or problems with the ear.
Some people experience sudden hearing loss, which should be evaluated promptly. Others may notice muffled hearing, difficulty understanding speech, or tinnitus, or ringing in the ears.
What are the different types of hearing loss?
There are three main types of hearing loss. Each affects a different part of the ear or hearing system.
- Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) occurs when there is damage to the inner ear or the nerves that carry sound to the brain. Aging, genetics, illness, certain medications, or long-term exposure to loud noise can cause SNHL. Hearing aids or cochlear implants may be recommended depending on the severity.
- Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) is a type of sensorineural hearing loss that affects how sound signals travel from the inner ear to the brain. People with ANSD may be able to hear sounds but still have difficulty understanding speech.
- Conductive hearing loss (CHL) occurs when sound has trouble traveling through the outer ear or middle ear. Earwax buildup, fluid in the middle ear, and ear infections are common causes. Treatment depends on the cause.
- Mixed hearing loss (MHL) is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. This means it involves both the outer or middle ear and the inner ear or auditory nerve.
Learn about hearing aids at ARC.
How do audiologists help assess and treat hearing loss?
An audiologist can evaluate hearing and determine the type and severity of hearing loss. A hearing test and other assessments can help identify hearing concerns and guide treatment.
Depending on the test results, treatment may include medical care, hearing rehabilitation, hearing protection, or hearing aids.
"Early evaluation can help identify hearing loss and reduce potential complications of leaving it untreated," says Dr. Olivia. "It can also support better communication and quality of life."
About ARC Audiology
ARC Audiology provides comprehensive hearing care for children and adults, including hearing evaluations, diagnostic testing, hearing aid fittings, hearing rehabilitation, and hearing protection solutions. ARC audiologists work closely with primary care clinicians and patients to assess hearing concerns and create personalized treatment plans that help improve communication and quality of life.
ARC Audiology pediatric care provides specialized services to identify and manage hearing loss in children. Because hearing plays a critical role in speech and language development, learning, and social-emotional growth, early diagnosis and intervention can make a lasting difference in a child's development and overall well-being.
Schedule an appointment today
Dr. Olivia is accepting new patients of all ages. To make an appointment with Dr. Olivia at ARC Medical Plaza Specialty in Cedar Park, call 512-272-4636 (512-ARC-INFO) or book through ARC MyChart.