Though we often associate trouble hearing with getting older, the truth is that young adults can experience hearing loss as well.
How Common Is Hearing Loss in Young Adults?
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that 12% of adults ages 18-39 report difficulty following a conversation in places with background noise. This is a hallmark sign of hearing loss.
Hearing problems in young adults can vary from mild to profound and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, certain infections and medical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
One of the most common causes is exposure to loud noise.
Noise Exposure Plays a Big Role in Young Adult Hearing Loss
Exposure to loud noise is a leading cause of hearing loss in young adults. Any repeated exposure to noise over 85 decibels (dB), roughly the equivalent of the volume of city traffic, can damage your hearing.
Young people may be exposed to loud noise at work if they are in a field such as construction or through various activities, including:
- Hunting or going to the shooting range
- Riding motorcycles or snowmobiles
- Attending rock concerts
- Listening to music at high volume through earbuds or headphones
- Mowing the lawn or using a leaf blower
Thankfully there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of noise-induced hearing loss. These include:
- Avoiding loud noise exposure when possible
- Using hearing protection like earplugs when you do engage in louder activities
- Making sure you listen to music at a reasonable volume when you’re wearing headphones or earbuds
The Challenges of Untreated Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be difficult at any age. However, if you’re a younger adult with the condition, you may face some unique challenges in various areas of your life, including:
- Attending school: Hearing loss can make it harder to hear what your professors are saying, especially in larger lecture halls with many other peers in class.
- Finding a career. When looking for employment, you may worry over the decision to disclose your hearing loss to your employer or whether to ask about any accommodations offered to employees with hearing loss.
- Starting a family. Starting a family is an exciting yet stressful endeavor. If you have hearing loss, you may be worried about missing cries or calls from your young children.
Hearing Aids for Young Adults
Treating your hearing loss can help you manage these challenges. Schedule an appointment for a hearing test as soon as possible if you have any concerns about your hearing.
Hearing aids are the most common form of treatment for hearing loss. Finding the right pair and using them consistently will improve your ability to communicate and follow conversations, whether at the office or when meeting up with friends at Central Café.
For more information or to schedule an appointment to get your hearing evaluated, call North Shore Audio-Vestibular Lab today.