subject: Three Uncontrollable Reasons You May Need A Hearing Test [print this page] Sometimes, a hearing test is necessary and there is nothing you could have done to prevent the loss. It can be very hard to accept this, as you may have gone through your life taking every precaution necessary to keep from losing your ability to hear. But in fact, this is actually something that is common. People cannot prevent all types of loss, though it may be possible to prevent some forms. For example, you can prevent the damage that recreational or work-related noise and sounds can have on you by using protective devices. You cannot, on the other hand, prevent some of the following problems.
You Are Getting Older
There is nothing you can do about this problem. Those who are getting older will be at a higher risk of developing hearing-related complications. In fact, by the time you are 60 years old, you will be more likely to fail a screening than at any previous time in your life. By age 65, about half of all people will have some evidence of loss on a hearing test. This happens because the inner ear, including the nerve cells on the eardrum, wears down simply from use.
Hereditary Factors Could Hurt You
It is also the case that many people suffer from loss due to hereditary factors. If your parents or your grandparents had loss, it is likely that they will share this with you. In many cases, this is the most likely cause of loss in the ability to hear in those who are younger than normal and have issues. The problem is in the genetic makeup. You are simply more prone to having loss as a result of exposure or age.
Medication or Illness Related Loss
Some medications can cause difficulties in sound perception. In other cases, you may experience loss due to an injury or disease that affects this area of the body. You may not be able to control these situations either. The good news is that some people see significant improvement when they are able to switch medications or bring the condition they have under control. This is something to work with your primary doctor about if it is something you are experiencing.
There are many situations in which you can control loss. If you have the ability to protect your ears, then do so. It can help you to avoid losing one of the most important senses you have. However, in other cases, you may not be able to prevent this from happening. You can, however, get help. Have a hearing test on an annual basis. Find out what your problems are and what steps you can take to fix the underlying cause, if possible.
