Understanding Hearing Loss
Hearing loss—or hearing impairment—is a reduction in your ability to hear. It can happen gradually or relatively quickly. At Beltone, we want to help you understand hearing loss and find the right solution.
The Advantages of Wearing Two Hearing Aids
Most mammals are equipped with binaural hearing, which is our ability to hear from two ears simultaneously. Such hearing allows us to make fine judgements about sound and listen selectively to the noises around us.
That’s why it’s so important to not limit your hearing to only one ear. Consider the following benefits of wearing two hearing aids:
Localized sound – The ability to detect the direction and distance of sound can only be achieved with two ears.
Balanced hearing – Hearing with two ears will help you more accurately respond to sounds, like conversation on your left or right side.
Better speech comprehension – Balanced hearing with both ears may improve your ability to understand speech, both in background noise and in quiet situations.
Can I Ignore My Hearing Loss in Both Ears?
Hearing loss impacts much more than your ability to hear. Left untreated, hearing loss (even hearing loss in one ear only) can affect many aspects of your life, including your overall health and wellbeing.
Untreated hearing loss can lead to depression, isolation, dementia, falls and more, so seeking treatment quickly is recommended.
Click the link below to learn more about the impacts of hearing loss—and how hearing aids can help you.
Take the Next Step
Don't wait any longer to begin your journey to better hearing. Beltone is ready to help you hear what matters the most to you.
Schedule a free hearing screening with a Beltone hearing care professional to explore your options.
Types of Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss (sometimes called nerve-related hearing loss) is the most common type of hearing loss among adults.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss is often temporary and can sometimes be corrected with wax removal, medication or surgery.
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss is precisely what it sounds like: a mix of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Causes of Hearing Loss
Age-Related Hearing Loss
Along with exposure to loud noises, the natural aging process is the most common cause of sensorineural hearing loss.
Earbuds & Hearing Loss
Headphones and earbuds can induce hearing loss by isolating loud noises and placing them directly inside your sensitive ear canals.
Medication & Hearing Loss
Prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications that cause either hearing loss or tinnitus symptoms are called ototoxic medications.
Meningitis & Hearing Loss
While meningitis doesn’t always result in hearing loss, people who have had meningitis are at a much higher risk.
