Understanding the intricacies of how we perceive sound and the potential threats to our hearing can empower us to take proactive steps in preserving this vital sense. From enjoying the melodies of a favorite band to engaging in heartfelt conversations, hearing serves as a bridge to the world around us. Delving into the mechanics of hearing and recognizing common causes of hearing loss can guide us in safeguarding our auditory health for the long haul.
The Hearing Process
When the barista at Hendershot’s calls out your name, you understand the information in a fraction of a second, but the sound actually goes through a long and complicated process.
When the barista says your name, the sound waves travel through the air, entering your outer ear. These waves then strike the eardrum, causing it to vibrate in response. The ossicles (tiny bones in the middle ear) amplify the vibrations before sending them to the inner ear. When the amplified vibrations reach the inner ear, they enter the cochlea, a fluid-filled structure lined with approximately 16,000 microscopic hair cells. As the vibrations enter the cochlea, they cause the fluid inside to ripple, setting the hair cells in motion. The movement of these hair cells generates electrical signals, which are relayed to the brain via the auditory nerve. When the electrical signals reach the brain, you understand them as sound.
Understanding Hearing Loss
Hearing loss occurs when any part of the hearing process is disrupted. A few things that may disrupt the process include:
- Loud noise exposure. Prolonged exposure to loud noises can strain and damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, potentially causing temporary or permanent hearing loss.
- Aging. With advancing age, changes in the inner ear’s structure occur naturally, leading to a gradual decline in hearing.
- Illness. Infections and medical conditions such as otosclerosis, acoustic neuromas (noncancerous inner ear tumors), Ménière’s disease and ear infections can damage or block the path of sound and lead to hearing loss.
- Ototoxic medications. Ototoxic medications pose a risk of damaging the auditory system, potentially resulting in hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Common ototoxic medications include chemotherapy drugs, blood pressure medication and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Protecting Your Hearing
You may not be able to prevent all causes of hearing loss, like aging or otosclerosis, but a few ways you can protect your hearing include:
- Wear ear protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, in noisy environments.
- Limit exposure to excessively loud sounds and keep the volume at a moderate level when using headphones or earbuds.
- Schedule routine audiology appointments to monitor your hearing health and address any concerns promptly.
To learn more about how you can care for your hearing, contact ENT of Athens to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.