Sensorineural hearing loss happens when there is damage to the nerve pathways between the inner ear and the brain. This is a permanent type of hearing loss characterized by difficulty hearing soft sounds. Many also complain of loud noises being overly muffled. This type of hearing loss can be caused by several different circumstances, including illness,  head injuries, aging, genetics, and medication usage.

Hearing Aids For Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Hearing aids are the first line of treatment for those with sensorineural hearing loss. These hearing devices allow the user to hear a sound in a more amplified fashion. A hearing aid is designed to pick up the sounds around you through its microphone. It then converts those sound waves into electrical signals. These signals are sent to the amplifier, which projects the signals to the brain to allow the user to hear sounds much better.

What Are the Types Of Hearing Aid Styles

There are three main types of hearing aid styles on the market today. These include:

• In-the-Ear, or ITE, hearing aids are constructed with a plastic case that fits in the outer portion of the ear.
• Behind-the-Ear, or BTE, hearing aids are specifically designed with a hard case that sits at the back of the ear. BTEs are connected to a small plastic mold that sits inside of the ear.
• Lastly, we have the popular CIC, or completely in the canal, hearing aids constructed to sit inside the person's ear canal.

Why Is Seeking Hearing Treatment So Important?

Experiencing hearing loss can be a very scary situation. It can be hard to admit that your hearing isn't what it used to be. Unfortunately, many individuals wait to seek treatment for their hearing loss for a fear that they will have to wear a huge hearing aid. The reality is that hearing aids aren't what they used to be. They're much better as the hearing aids of today are designed with comfort and look in mind.

In fact, you can opt for any of the three types of hearing aids that we discussed above if you have sensorineural hearing loss. Untreated hearing loss can lead to a slew of other health-related issues. Those who put off seeking treatment will tend to socially withdraw themselves from the environment around them. Before you know it, you'll be spending less time with family and friends due to your inability and frustration trying to hear them. Social isolation will continue to lead to other conditions like depression and dementia.

Call Us Today

If you're experiencing sensorineural hearing loss, it's time to give us a call at Beltone South. Our hearing care specialists will provide you with a free audiological exam and recommend the best Beltone hearing aids to fit your needs.