Tinnitus and Hearing Loss 

Tinnitus and hearing loss are not the same.  Although closely associated they are two different things.  Hearing loss has many causes just like tinnitus.  It is also possible to have hearing loss and tinnitus symptoms.

Hearing loss is caused by a malfunction of the mechanisms that conduct sound waves through the outer ear, eardrum or the inner ear.  The cochlea or the core component of the inner ear is the most common component  that may be damaged.  One of the main causes of hearing loss is long term exposure to loud noise. Other causes are explained below.  

To give you a frame of reference, the chart below, labels some common sounds. The loudness of sound is measured in decibels (dB). Most experts recommend that you use earplugs when exposed to 85 dB and above. But what does 85 dB mean? The following chart shows common sounds and their associated sound levels. 

Hearing loss or impairment is be ranked as mild, moderate, severe or profound as defined below: 

Mild: between 25 and 40 dB 

Moderate: between 41 and 55 dB

Moderately severe: between 56 and 70 dB

Severe: between 71 and 90 dB

Profound: 90 dB or greater  

Genetic - Hearing loss can be inherited. Both dominant genes and recessive genes exist which can cause mild to profound impairment 

Disease or Illness - These common disease and illnesses can contribute to hearing loss. measles, meningitis, autoimmune disease, mumps, presbycusis, AIDS and HIV. 

Medications - Unfortunately some medications can cause damage to the ear.  Well known prescription drugs like oxycontin, vicodin and antibiotics have side effects that can damage your hearing.   

Exposure to Chemicals - High exposure levels of industrial chemicals, pesticides, herbicides carbon monoxide lead and mercury are just some of the chemicals to reduce your exposure to. 

Physical Trauma - People who receive some sort of head trauma can sustain temporary or permanent hearing loss.  Loud noise trauma of 90 dB or more from explosions or long term exposure to loud musical concerts can contribute to hearing loss. 

Hearing loss can be completely separate from tinnitus. However, damage to the microscopic inner ear nerves will contribute to both tinnitus and hearing loss.  So often times tinnitus and hearing loss will develop together.    

If you are suffering from tinnitus, it is extremely important you educate yourself on all the probable causes that can apply to your set of circumstances.  The recommended reading "Curing Tinnitus" goes into more detail.  Many times a natural cure can be found.    

For all the details grab your copy of "Curing Tinnitus" right on this page.

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