Prevalence and Causes of Hearing Loss

Prevalence of Hearing Loss Each year in the United States, more than 12,000 babies are born with a hearing loss (2010). 1.4 million children under the age of 18 have reported hearing loss. Profound deafness occurs in 4-11 per 10,000 children. During the school year, 73,421 students were listed as deaf or hard of hearing.

Levels of Hearing Loss dB – slight hearing loss dB – mild hearing loss dB – moderate hearing loss dB – severe hearing loss More than 80 dB – profound hearing loss

Causes of Hearing Loss Genetics Environmental causes Otitis media: middle ear infections

Conductive Hearing Loss Occurs when something blocks the sound passing through the outer or middle ear. Causes include wax, ear infections, or malformation of the ear canal. Makes hearing soft sounds difficult. Can be temporary, sometimes medication or surgery is needed.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss Caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. Affects ability to hear faint sounds and clear sounds, can make understanding speech difficult. May be caused by genetics, diseases, injuries, or exposure to loud noises. Hearing aids or cochlear implants can be used as treatment.

Mixed Hearing Loss Combines conductive and sensorineural difficulties. Sounds may be distorted. Medical treatment and hearing aids can increase hearing, and some individuals may benefit from a cochlear implant.

Central Auditory Processing Difficulties Though sounds can be heard they cannot be processed. Limits the individual’s ability to use auditory information.