Hearing Loss: Come introduce yourself and connect with others

It is difficult to determine the cause of hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by issues in the inner ear or cochlea. Conductive hearing loss is caused by problems in the middle ear. If sensorineural hearing loss has been identified, it's possible there is a genetic link. Are there people in your genetic line who have or have had hearing loss?

I'm glad you asked about prevention. The most common cause of hearing loss is over exposure to noise. Noise is everywhere in our environment, but exposure can be limited by avoiding it and by using well fit ear plugs when that's not possible. Things like loud music, noise at large sporting events, fireworks, gun shots, noisy machinery, etc. are problematic. Sudden extreme noise and lesser noise experienced over time can both damage hearing. Best to avoid exposure is possible, and to use ear protection if not.

Anything over 90 decibels can damage hearing. Again, duration matters. You can download a decibel meter on your cell phone. It's interesting to see how noisy the environment can be. Here is a link to what audiologists refer to as 'the speech banana'. It shows where typical hearing lies on an audiogram, and shows some common sounds that are dangerous.
https://www.ndsd.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/Presentations/Audiogram-Sp-Banana.pdf
It's important to understand that some people seem to be less prone to noise induced hearing loss than others are.

Was your granddaughter born prematurely? In some cases hearing can improve after that initial infant testing. Your granddaughter should be retested regularly.

Thank you very much. This answer helps a lot.

Thank you!

This information about the AGB LEAP program just came to me this morning. It would be an interesting experience for a teenager with hearing loss to participate in this program online. Registration deadline is coming up soon. There is no fee to participate.

The start of STRONG CONNECTIONS
Discover a World Where You Belong! Join us at the Learning Experience and Adventure Program (LEAP)—a virtual space for high school students who are deaf or hard of hearing, just like YOU! Calling all High School Students, ages 14-18, with bilateral or unilateral hearing loss who use Listening and Spoken Language as their primary communication method.

Why LEAP?
1. Connect & Bond: Meet and connect with peers from across the country who understand your experiences. It’s a place to make lasting friendships and share stories in a welcoming virtual environment.
2. Fun & Interactive: Dive into exciting activities and games designed to inspire and engage you. From creative workshops to thought-provoking discussions, there’s something for everyone!
3. Learn from the Best: Our sessions are led by successful adults who are also deaf or hard of hearing, proficient in Listening and Spoken Language (LSL), ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
Session Details:
• October 18-19, 2024
o October 18: 7:00-9:30 PM ET
o October 19: 1:00-4:30 PM ET
• Apply Here: https://form.jotform.com/233385284519262
• Application Closes: October 17, 2024
• Cost: Absolutely FREE!
• After applying, keep an eye on your inbox for more exciting details!
We’re here to help! Contact us at LEAP@agbell.org.

Don’t miss this opportunity to leap into fun, friendship, and an unforgettable learning adventure. Spaces are filling up quickly—secure your spot today and be part of a community that understands, supports, and celebrates you!

Our Contact Information
Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
3417 Volta PL NW
Washington, DC 20007
202-337-5220
https://agbell.org

Thinking back, I may have had mild hearing loss since adolescence. However, I was not officially diagnosed w hearing loss until age 47 by audiologist at my ENT’s office in 2005. This was after a sudden & serious hearing loss issue after I had a ruptured brain aneurysm in 2004, that was corrected with the coiling procedure through my leg! Miraculously, hearing loss was my only disability after the aneurysm.
I began with in-the-canal Hearing aids for 18 years.
One year ago I chose behind the ear Hearing aids as I wanted Bluetooth.features and the raved about automatic adjustment in multiple noise situation feature.
Even with nany program adjustments and tweaks, I still find myself asking people to repeat themselves, hearing other words, particularly words beginning with consonants and simply not hearing someone, although in the same room!

I just wonder why hearing loss can't be treated better than other problems. If astronauts had hearing problems, I think someone would figure a better system!
Thank you for letting me vent!

I am a Army National Guard Veteran and 14 year American Tinnitus Association volunteer who has moderate to severe high frequency hearing loss and 4 noises with Tinnitus. I have helped hundreds regain quality of life conducting tinnitus support group classes, peer one on one training and support as well as public speaking for the Hearing Loss Association (Chapters in HLA) and many other organizations as well as promoting tinnitus and hearing loss on ABC, Fox, The Hearing Journal, Growing Boulder and many other media sources. There are many helpful tips and lessons learned that can help others when buying or understanding hearing aids. Please remember if you lost 20% of your hearinng the aids are basically made up of computer chips and tweaked to support your hearing loss through software programs and an "Expert hearing professional". They can only make sounds louder to compensate that 20% loss and the brain is the engine that drives the hearing. In most cases we hear with the brain not the ears. So many other support options out there to help you. God Bless all of you.