In today’s noisy world, there are more reasons than ever to take steps to maintain good hearing. Dangerous noise exposure can come from your work environment, hobbies, lawn equipment, car stereo speakers, mp3 players and ipods, and even hairdryers. Parents may also appreciate the little known fact that a screaming child can exceed 90 decibels, which is a loudness level regulated by OSHA standards to less than four hours a day of exposure.

According to Lisa Cahill, Ph.D., CCC-A, an audiologist with The Christ Hospital Audiology Center, Whether you are exposed to these kinds of noises or not, natural progression hearing loss during adulthood is one of the most common health problems in our society, although in many cases it is left undiagnosed for long periods of time. About 36 million individuals in the U.S. suffer from significant hearing impairment, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Many are unaware that hearing loss is not uncommon in adults even as young as ages 35 – 50 years. In fact, more than 50 percent of hearing impaired individuals are in this age range. 

What you need to know

In general, women tend to have better hearing than men throughout their lives; however, certain factors may negatively influence hearing status. For example, the natural hormone Progesterone, produced by older women and utilized in hormone replacement therapy, has been associated with increased progression of hearing loss in women. Hearing loss in women has also been associated with a history of fibromyalgia, menopause, lupus, abnormal bone growth in the ear, as well as just normal wear and tear or genetics.   Recent research also shows that low cardiovascular fitness can initiate an early onset of age-related hearing loss.

The toll of hearing loss is enormous. It can lead to social isolation, limit your job prospects, complicate relationships, rob you of self-esteem and make you feel as if life is passing you by. A national study conducted by the National Council on Aging concluded that living with untreated hearing loss can significantly impact overall health and sense of well-being.

Get your hearing tested

It’s never too early in life to have your hearing checked. Even if you don’t suspect a hearing loss, obtaining a baseline exam during early adulthood can also provide your hearing healthcare provider with a valuable comparison to judge later changes in hearing. 

To schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation at The Christ Hospital Audiology Center, call 513-272-0200. The Center offers a full range of diagnostic hearing tests, hearing aids and assistive listening devices, and provides long-term counseling and rehabilitation services related to hearing loss.