Deafness Research
Hearing loss is impairment in hearing but deafness is usually a near total loss of hearing. Hearing loss is primarily caused by two affects. A mechanical problem in the ear, which blocks the sound, is one cause and the other is from damage to the auditory nerves, which deteriorates pathways to the brain. A thorough examination by an audiologist who can determine the cause and then recommend a treatment to restore the hearing as much as possible is the most effective course to follow
Treatment depends upon the problem and sometimes just removing wax from the ears restores the hearing, but many times wax is removed and will not provide any benefit in hearing. Few treatments will improve hearing and the solution for most people are hearing aids. There are many options in the selection of hearing aids that are of great help and in the last several years much progress has been made with hearing aids that are smaller, more attractive and extremely effective. The audiologist has several tests to conduct in order to get enough information to provide the right hearing aid for the maximum comfort, hearing and appearance. If the person has a near total or total loss of hearing the options are few. If surgery is not effective, a cochlear implant is the only choice. The doctor must make the diagnosis of the profoundly deaf and recommend options of treatments.
