Hearing loss makes everyday activities like interacting with loved ones, watching TV, and scheduling appointments much more difficult. It makes sense why getting a hearing loss diagnosis can be an emotional and challenging time.
Medical technology is rapidly advancing, and you may wonder whether it’s possible for your hearing to be restored or if there is a “quick fix” for hearing loss. While neither of these is the case, there are promising solutions for permanent hearing loss in progress. In the meantime, hearing aids and other listening devices help treat the problem and improve the quality of life.
Medications may help with permanent hearing loss
It is essential to note that there are minimal circumstances where medicine can cure hearing loss alone. In some cases of sudden hearing loss, steroids can be injected into the ear or taken orally to reduce inflammation. This treatment can help some people regain their full hearing when utilized early on.
No other drug options are available that can cure or reverse the effects of hearing loss; however, research is currently underway on a drug that could do just that, which began in October 2019.
Surgery can help repair hearing
Several types of surgery are available for structural problems in or around the ear that cause hearing loss, including correcting the eardrum and the middle ear.
Some of the most common types of hearing repair surgery include:
- Stapedectomy for patients who have otosclerosis, a condition that affects the bone in the middle of the ear
- Tympanoplasty, which can repair or replace an eardrum that has been injured
Restoring your hearing is the ultimate goal of the procedure so you can:
- Lead a more comfortable life
- Have less trouble with everyday activities such as talking to others
- Enjoy watching television and listening to music
- Have less frequent ear infections for those who receive a tympanoplasty
Listening devices are a solution for a permanent hearing loss
If diagnosed with hearing loss that your doctor cannot treat medically, they may recommend a hearing aid evaluation and consultation with an audiologist. The appointment will help determine which hearing aids or other assistive listening devices would be most appropriate by considering your:
- Lifestyle
- Listening needs
- Hearing concerns
Hearing or alerting assistive devices may be recommended in addition to, or instead of, hearing aids. These technologies include signaling or test display devices and Assistive Listening Devices.
Treating hearing loss at Texas ENT Specialists
To address your hearing loss, book an appointment with us at any of our locations in Texas. Our practice is home to highly-trained ENTs in Houston and surrounding areas, who take the time to learn about you and your medical history and listen to your concerns so they can effectively treat the cause of your hearing loss.
At Texas ENT Specialists, we understand that experiencing impaired hearing can be a challenging and even scary time. As such, we will handle your treatment with the utmost care and compassion, ensuring that you feel safe and assured in our hands. Book an appointment today to take the next step in managing your ENT health.
