Hearing Loss

Hearing loss occurs in people of all ages, but it’s more common as you get older. Richard D. Orgill, MD, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is an ear, nose, and throat specialist providing comprehensive care for hearing loss, including on-site audiology testing for sudden hearing loss. Call the nearest office or request your hearing loss consultation online today.

What is hearing loss?

Hearing loss is the inability to hear sounds clearly. It’s a distressing condition that may develop gradually over time or occur suddenly. Many people with difficulty hearing may withdraw from social situations if they feel they’re unable to fully participate in conversations.

Hearing loss is a common problem. Though not all causes of hearing loss are reversible, there are treatments that can improve how you hear and your quality of life.

What are the types of hearing loss?

Where your hearing loss occurs determines the type. Hearing is a complex sensory function that depends on the structure and function of your auditory system. A problem involving one or more of the parts of your auditory system may lead to hearing loss.

Types of hearing loss include:

Conductive hearing loss

Conductive hearing loss occurs when something blocks sound from traveling from the outer ear to the middle ear, such as earwax or a foreign object.

Sensorineural hearing loss 

Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when you have problems with the sensory nerves in the inner ear.

Mixed hearing loss

When you have both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, you have mixed hearing loss.

Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder

Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder affects the delivery and interpretation of sound to the brain due to damage to the inner ear or hearing nerves.

Knowing what’s causing your hearing loss can help Dr. Orgill determine the best treatment plan.

What happens during a hearing loss evaluation?

Dr. Orgill and his skilled staff conduct thorough evaluations for patients that are concerned about hearing loss. He reviews your symptoms and medical history and evaluates your ears.

The office has an audiologist who performs hearing tests on-site for patients with sudden hearing loss. That test may help determine the severity of your hearing loss. 

What are the treatments for hearing loss?

Treatment for hearing loss depends on the cause. If you have conductive hearing loss, Dr. Orgill may perform a procedure to correct the blockage and improve hearing.

For other types of hearing loss, he may recommend the use of hearing aids. These devices amplify sounds to improve hearing. 

For severe hearing loss, Dr. Orgill may talk to you about cochlear implants, which stimulate the hearing nerves to improve the delivery of sounds to the brain. 

Hearing loss is a distressing symptom but has many treatment options. Schedule a consultation with Richard D. Orgill, MD, by phone or request one online today.