Hearing Loss

• The National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that 34 million Americans have a hearing loss.
• Of the 34 million Americans with a hearing loss, approximately 86 percent are hard of hearing and 14 percent are deaf.
• Males are more likely to experience hearing loss than females.
• Hearing loss is most common among the elderly. More than one out of every four people over the age of 65 has a hearing loss.
• Three high risk factors for hearing loss in infants and young children include a family history of hearing loss, congenital infection and recurrent or persistent otitis media (ear infection).
• An average of three out of every 100 school-age children are affected by hearing loss.
• Research conducted by the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs suggest that all infants be screened for hearing loss by one month of age and preferably before hospital discharge.
• Hearing loss is not an inevitable effect of getting older, but if you are over 50 years of age, some hearing loss can be expected. On the other hand, hearing loss in people under 50 is usually a sign of an underlying disorder.
• Only a doctor can diagnose the cause of a hearing loss. If you should notice a change in your hearing, see your doctor, even if you are at an age at which hearing loss might be expected.

To schedule an appointment with a Kelsey-Seybold Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose & Throat specialist), or to have your hearing tested by a Kelsey-Seybold Audiologist, call our 24/7 Customer Service Contact Center at 713-442-0427.

Resources:

National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC.gov
National Self Help for Hard of Hearing People, SHHH.org