Hearing loss is a common condition, affecting 21.5% of the Malaysian population (Haile et al., 2021). While our hearing naturally deteriorates with age, unsafe listening habits today are also putting over one billion young adults at risk of hearing damage (Source: World Health Organization). Hearing loss impacts individuals differently. Understanding the extent of hearing impairment can help us recognize how it may affect everyday routines and interactions, in ways that many Malaysians may find familiar.
Individuals with slight hearing loss may struggle to hear very soft sounds, especially in noisy environments. Generally, they can follow conversations well in quiet settings, but background noise—such as that found in a mamak restaurant or a busy coffee shop—can make it difficult to catch everything being said.
Example: picture a conversation at a bustling pasar malam (night market). Someone with slight hearing loss might need to lean in closer or ask for repetitions if a friend speaks softly or if the sounds of frying food and chatter are particularly loud.
Mild hearing loss means missing out on soft and subtle sounds. Without hearing aids, they might miss parts of the conversations, especially if people are speaking from a distance or there’s background noise.
Example: At a family gathering during Hari Raya, someone with mild hearing loss may struggle to hear relatives speaking from across the room, or they might have difficulty understanding when people speak quickly or softly, especially if there’s music playing in the background.
With moderate hearing loss, people will often miss conversations at a normal speaking volume and may need hearing aids to catch what’s being said clearly. Phone calls and meetings in large spaces can be challenging without some form of sound amplification.
Example: At a business conference, someone with moderate hearing loss might find it hard to hear the speech clearly, especially if seated at the back. They might also struggle to catch announcements in large halls, like those at work or in school.
People with moderate to severe hearing loss need a lot of sound amplification to understand conversations. Unless they are wearing hearing aids with cutting edge technology, it can be hard to hear speech clearly, especially in noisy environments, so they often rely on lip-reading or close-up conversation.
Example: During a wedding dinner, where family members make speeches and children run around, a person with moderate to severe hearing loss may find it difficult to follow along with the speeches or stories shared by family members. They might feel left out if they can’t easily keep up with group conversations and jokes.
Severe hearing loss means that an individual cannot hear normal speech even if the speaker is close by. They may only pick up on louder sounds, and everyday sounds like cars or ringing phones might go unnoticed. Hearing aids or visual aids (like sign language) become crucial for understanding others.
Example: At Mid Valley Megamall basement 1 or 2, someone with severe hearing loss may not hear announcements over the loudspeakers or the sound of friends calling out to them from a distance. They might rely on text messages or other forms of communication to stay connected.
Profound hearing loss represents the most severe level of hearing impairment, where a person cannot hear most sounds without strong amplification. Individuals at this level often rely on alternative communication methods such as sign language or lip-reading, as hearing aids alone may not be effective.
Example: During a large celebration like a New Year’s Eve party, someone with profound hearing loss might feel isolated in the crowd, as they would be unable to hear the music, speeches, or the excitement of the festivities.
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a common type of hearing loss that results from damage to the hair cells in the inner ear or the auditory nerves. SNHL can be categorized as acquired, sudden, or congenital.
SNHL can be caused by aging, prolonged exposure to loud noises, or unsafe listening practice. Sounds as loud as 100 dB—like the noise of a power tool —are only safe to hear for less than five minutes per day. Music in clubs, concerts, and even some headphones at maximum volume can reach levels around 110 dB. Even brief exposure to these intense sound levels can be damaging, and frequent exposure over time may lead to hearing loss.
Sudden SNHL can occur unexpectedly and may be caused by factors such as infection, head trauma, or other medical conditions.
About 0.1% to 0.3% of individuals are genetically predisposed to congenital sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL).
Difficulty understanding speech, needing to increase the volume of the TV or radio, and experiencing a ringing sound in the ears known as tinnitus.
Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with outer or middle ear, preventing sounds from being conducted to the inner ear.
Muffled hearing, sudden or steady loss of hearing, full or “stuffy” sensation in the ear, dizziness, pain or tenderness in the ear
Conductive hearing loss can often be treated with medical or surgical interventions, such as removing earwax, treating infections, or repairing structural issues. It is advisable to consult an ENT specialist.
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. This type of hearing loss occurs due to damage in both the inner and middle ear. Factors such as aging, exposure to loud noises, and certain medical conditions can contribute to the development of mixed hearing loss.
Treatment for mixed hearing loss varies based on underlying causes and may involve hearing aids, medical therapies, or surgical options. Please contact Clarisound for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.
Don’t let hearing loss hold you back. Take the first step towards better hearing today.
Several specialized hearing loss conditions can affect individuals, each with unique characteristics and treatment options.
Known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), this is a condition where a person experiences a rapid and significant loss of hearing in one or both ears. This can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, head trauma, or exposure to loud sounds. Sudden hearing loss is considered a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is essential to prevent permanent damage. Treatment options may include corticosteroids, antiviral medications, or other medications to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Early intervention can significantly improve the chances of recovery and minimize long-term hearing impairment.
Profound hearing loss is characterized by a significant reduction in the ability to perceive sound. It can result from genetic conditions, ear infections, and head injuries. Treatment options for profound hearing loss include cochlear implants and other assistive listening devices, which can help individuals regain some level of hearing and improve their communication abilities.
Unilateral hearing loss, or hearing loss in one ear, can arise from a range of factors, such as sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), conductive hearing loss, or mixed hearing loss. Individuals experiencing single-sided hearing impairment may face challenges in sound localization and understanding speech in noisy settings. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and CROS hearing systems. These solutions can significantly enhance hearing abilities and improve overall auditory perception, thereby facilitating smoother and more effective daily communication.
By understanding these specialized hearing loss conditions, individuals can seek appropriate treatment and support to manage their hearing loss effectively.
Let’s keep your ears happy and healthy with safe listening practices:
Use Apps to monitor sound levels and try to stay below 80dB on average.
Opt for noise-canceling headphones and use ear plugs to block out loud noises.
Limit exposure to loud environments to keep those sensory cells in top shape.
Watch out for warning signs like tinnitus or difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds.
Healthy listening habits today mean happier hearing tomorrow!
