Temporary Hearing Loss
Of the many types of hearing loss, temporary is the most common. There are several types of hearing impairments including congenital or those that a child is born with, and those that occur later in life. Three terms often classify hearing impairments. They are mixed, conductive, and sensorineural hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss accounts for most permanent impairments; while conductive contributes to temporary. Mixed hearing loss may be a combination of sensorineural and conductive. Of the three types of hearing impairments, sensorineural hearing loss is viewed as the most severe.
There are many hearing loss causes responsible for both permanent and temporary impairments. Children born deaf may have a genetic condition or the deafness may be a result of viruses, bacteria, or disease in the womb. Conductive hearing loss often occurs after birth and may be the result of trauma to the ear, an infection, excessive fluid build-up, or an accumulation of earwax. In the majority of these cases, the hearing loss is temporary and will subside in time. Conductive hearing loss is the most common form and accounts for the majority of childhood hearing impairments. For those whom conductive hearing loss comes on suddenly, the event can be frightening and alarming. Those who experience sudden hear loss should speak to their health care provider immediately.
Understanding hearing loss causes is an important tool used in the prevention of hearing impairments. Parents and childcare givers of children who have frequent ear infections should remain cautious about sudden hearing loss. Several ear infections can cause a child to retain fluid in the middle ear that may pose difficulties on a temporary basis. It is not uncommon for children to suffer temporary or sudden hearing loss that affects their ability to perform optimally at school. Though the majority of sudden hearing loss cases are temporary, there are times when a person may lose their hearing totally and permanently.
A sudden hearing impairment that results in deafness may leave an individual in a state of shock, anger, and bewilderment. Those experiencing sudden deafness must realize they are not alone. Reaching out to the deaf community can provide an enormous support system that helps to overcome some of the most difficult times. Permanent hearing loss that comes on suddenly, is considerably less common than temporary hearing impairments and are often more emotionally challenging. Sudden deafness may be the result of medications, an injury to the ear, an infection, or an unknown cause. To go from hearing to deafness can be overwhelming and opens up a person to an entire new world. Understanding deaf culture is imperative to making new lifestyle changes, and ensuring the individual has access to education, resources, and emotional support is of the utmost importance. Whether a permanent or temporary hearing loss, there is help available. By talking to health care providers, audiologists, members of the deaf community, and ensuring there is a strong support system, those facing deafness can ensure they overcome all obstacles.