Everything you need to know about mixed hearing loss

...and a mindful lifestyle. Mixed hearing loss can have a significant impact on an individual's ability to hear and understand speech and sounds. It's important to understand the causes of mixed hearing loss and take proactive steps to prevent it.

• Protect your ears from loud noises
  Loud noises above 85 decibels, such as concerts, loud music, and industrial or construction noise, can damage your hearing over time. To reduce your risk, it's important to limit exposure to loud noises and wear protective gear, such as custom fit protection earplugs, when necessary. It’s also important to take frequent breaks to avoid auditory overload.

• Adopt safe listening and tech habits
  Are earbuds or headphones bad for your hearing? If you lower the volume on personal devices, avoid prolonged exposure at high volumes, and use noise-cancelling headphones where possible, you can protect your ears and hearing. Be aware of the 60/60 rule for when wearing headphones - listen at no more than 60% of the device volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle
  Good health practices, such as not smoking, avoiding certain medications that are known to damage hearing, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, can help protect your hearing.

• Get frequent check-ups
  Early detection is key to maintaining healthy hearing. A regular hearing test for hearing loss, or mixed hearing loss audiogram, can catch problems early and help prevent worsening.

Mixed hearing loss calls for treatment of both middle ear and inner ear components. The causes of reduced hearing in the outer or middle ear, such as blockages, fluid, or eardrum issues, may be resolved with medical or surgical treatment. The sensorineural symptoms are usually permanent and often managed with hearing aids or other amplification devices.

With today’s technology, treatment options are more effective and personalized than ever for the best quality of life.