Why Hearing Loss is Prevalent among Teens
Studies show that a growing number of teens have hearing problems, a situation brought about by exposure to loud noises. According to a study by ReRez Research and Siemens Hearing Instruments, the situation has gotten worse with the proliferation of compact music players.
What the Numbers Reveal
According to the study, 46% of teenagers have experienced pain in the ears or buzzing, roaring, ringing sounds, and the effect is usually felt after listening to loud music or using loud tools without protection. The findings of this study support earlier research which indicates that nearly half of all teenagers in the US suffer from one hearing problem or another.
While the aforementioned music players are certainly culprits, it’s not the only one as concerts are just to blame. In some cases however parents have been neglectful as well. In a survey among parents, a majority said they never provide ear plugs for their teens when asked to mow the lawn, very risky because lawnmowers reach 90 decibels (db), which is higher than the maximum acceptable noise level for ears.
Increasing Awareness
If there’s something good in all of this, it’s that 88% of teens are aware of the situation and what activities can damage hearing. And it’s not just the teenagers either, as 80% of parents say they will ask their children to change listening habits if they knew there is a problem. The fact that parents and teens are aware of the issue bodes well for the future.
The findings in these studies and surveys lead credence to the report made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to the CDC, more and more young people between ages 6 and 19, now suffer hearing loss, with 13% having permanently damaged hearing. Translating these into numbers, that’s more than 5.2 million teenagers in the US alone.
Why is This Important?
Although problems with hearing may not seem like a big deal, it is, because hearing is a vital part of their cognitive function and development. Hearing problems, especially in children and adolescents, need to be diagnosed by a hearing expert as soon as possible so treatment can be given.
If you want to give your teen hearing aids, take him first to a hearing healthcare professional for advice first. Even if the hearing problem seems slight, seek the advice of an ENT doctor to avoid complications.
As any hearing expert will tell you, these types of problems tend to deteriorate over time and could affect their performance in school. The key to dealing with hearing problems is to have an open line with your teenagers, and make sure they know you’re listening if there’s a problem and will take action.
If you think your teen needs a hearing aid, make sure to get a hearing aid prescription. For more details of our hearing test & assessment, and hearing aid services, please contact HK Hearing & Speech Centre.
Source:
HK Hearing & Speech Centre
Specialist of Hearing test & assessment,
and Hearing Aid Prescription
https://www.hkhearingspeech.com