Sound is one of your key senses. Experiencing hearing loss can dampen your world. Whether you have just developed a hearing issue or have an existing condition, we can help you hear your best. Our audiology and otolaryngology teams work together to diagnose and treat hearing issues in adults and children, from newborn   on up.

Hearing loss is common as we age. Most types of hearing loss cannot be reversed, but we can help you improve your hearing. There are three types of hearing loss: sensorineural, conductive and mixed hearing loss. Take the hearing loss quiz to learn if you have symptoms of hearing loss.

Hearing Loss Quiz

Causes of Hearing Loss

  • Anatomy of the earDamage to the inner ear. The sound receptor of the inner ear, called the cochlea, has thousands of tiny hairs that translate sound waves  into electrical impulses for the brain. The hairs can become damaged through aging or long-term exposure to loud noise.
  • Buildup of earwax. Earwax protects the outer ear canal from dust, dirt and debris. A buildup of earwax can make it difficult to hear. Trying to clean out the wax on your own may clog the ear even more.
  • Ear infection and abnormal bone growth or tumor.
  • Ruptured eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation). Your eardrum can become ruptured due to sudden loud noise, infection, sticking an object in your  ear or a sudden change in pressure.

Diagnosis of Hearing Loss

If you suspect you have a hearing issue, start with your primary care provider for a full medical examination. They can refer you to our otolaryngology or audiology teams depending on the issue. We can perform comprehensive hearing assessments and diagnosis.

Treatment for Hearing Loss

After diagnosis, our ENT and audiology teams can help you with a treatment plan that can include medication, surgery, amplification or other treatments. We help you plan the best course of treatment for your issue.

Whether it’s ear infections, a hearing issue, sinusitis, or speech and swallowing our otolaryngology team can help. We look at your individual needs and offer treatment options that are right for you.

At Guthrie audiology, we evaluate, diagnose, treat, and manage hearing loss and balance disorders in adults and children.