Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is very common and affects millions of people a year. There are many factors that can contribute to hearing loss, such as genetics, health conditions, noise exposure, natural aging, a punctured eardrum and fluid or wax buildup. You may also experience hearing loss if there is an abnormal growth, tumor or foreign object present. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available and ways to protect yourself from hearing loss. Playing loud music through headphones or blasting the television volume can be detrimental to your hearing. Try to keep the volume as low as you can to protect your ears. If you are outdoors or at an event where you cannot avoid loud sounds, try to remember to bring earplugs or earmuffs with you.

Some people have a hearing problem and do not even realize it. The most common signs of hearing loss are:

• You often have to ask others to repeat themselves.
• You listen to music or watch television at a volume that others find too loud.
• You have trouble understanding conversations in places with background noise.
• You believe that others are mumbling when they speak.
• You frequently have trouble hearing when talking on the phone.
• You have trouble understanding higher pitches or frequencies.
• You are experiencing Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with an Ocean ENT physician as soon as possible. Our Ocean ENT physicians will help diagnose and treat your hearing problem. The Ocean ENT office is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm. To schedule an appointment, please call 732-281-0100. For the most up-to-date information, please follow us on Facebook.