Hearing Loss Treatment in Federal Way, WA

When people think of hearing loss, they often believe it only affects seniors. But did you know that approximately 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69 suffer from some form of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss? That number doesn’t even include those under 69 who suffer hearing loss due to other factors.

At Surgical Associates Northwest, our board-certified ear doctors specialize in a wide range of treatments for hearing loss at our ENT clinics in Auburn and Federal Way. Our ear doctors provide hearing loss treatment for patients in Kent, Renton, Maple Valley, and Puyallup, WA. For more information about hearing loss treatment options, call (253) 833-4050 to schedule your consultation.

Request an Appointment

What are the Causes of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)?

NIHL is the most common cause of hearing loss. Factors of sound such as intensity, frequency, and duration can cause damage to our ability to hear.

High-level sounds such as an explosion can cause sudden hearing loss even though the exposure time is small. This can result in either temporary or permanent hearing loss.

Most commonly, hearing loss occurs over time. Sounds over 85 decibels can be harmful to our ears and those sounds may be more common than one might think. Common sources of noises over 75 dB include music & live events, power tools such as chainsaws or leaf blowers, or even car horns.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea increases your risk of losing your hearing due to the effects of the vascular supply to the inner ear. In a study conducted by the American Thoracic Society, people with sleep apnea had a 31 percent increased risk of high-frequency impairment and 90 percent of people had an increased risk of low-frequency hearing impairment.

Diabetes

High blood glucose levels that are found in people with diabetes can damage vessels in the stria vascularis and nerves. It is recommended you schedule an annual hearing exam if you have been diagnosed with diabetes.

Smoking

Smoking can effect the vascular supply to the auditory system. Both direct and secondhand smoke can cause hearing damage over time.

Use of Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen

Pain relievers like ibuprofen can reduce blood flow to the cochlea, which can lead to impaired hearing. They can also impact the structures that protect the cochlea.

Popping Ears

Popping your ears on an airplane or in an elevator might make your ears feel better, but the pressure can result in a torn eardrum and damaged hearing.

How is Hearing Loss Diagnosed and Treated?

If you aren’t hearing as well as you used to, it could be caused by NIHL, impacted ear wax, an ear infection, or other sources. Your ENT at Surgical Associates Northwest will perform several tests to determine what is causing the hearing loss.

While hearing loss can be treated, it can’t be completely cured. Your ENT will be able to offer suggestions to prevent further hearing loss and may fit you with a hearing aid if necessary.