Hearing Loss as a Result of Common and Rare Medical Conditions: Clinical Findings/Management Options,, and Prevention Strategies

摘要

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders estimates that hearing loss affects 36 million American adults. This number has substantially increased over the past two decades, and with the first of the baby boomers reaching age 65 by 2011, the prevalence of hearing loss is expected to continue to, rise. Hearing impairment is common, and it can affect all individuals, at any age. The disorders and conditions that induce hearing loss are numerous and can be caused by age, disease, inherited abnormalities, medications, infections, inner ear malformation, perforation, and even objects occluding the external auditory canal. Dizziness and imbalance are also common sequelae of hearing disorders. The disorders not only impede one's ability to effectively communicate but can limit activities of daily living and ultimately lead to psychological and social consequences. For these reasons, understanding hearing loss and associated disorders leading to impairment is an immense concern for patients and practitioners.