While hearing loss is more common among older adults, younger people can struggle as well. Research has shown that 12% of adults ages 18-39 report difficulty following a conversation when there is background noise, a common sign of hearing loss.
Young Adults and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Many factors can cause hearing loss in young adults. However, one of the most common is exposure to loud noise. Repeated exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) has the potential to damage your ears and impact your hearing. The louder the sound, the less time it takes for damage to occur.
Some examples of common activities that may cause noise-induced hearing loss include:
- Hunting
- Riding motorcycles and snowmobiles
- Attending loud concerts
- Listening to music at high volume through earbuds or headphones
- Mowing the lawn
- Using a leaf blower
- Working in construction or other loud environments
If you are a young person who is regularly exposed to loud noises, consider using earplugs or other hearing protection to help reduce your risk of hearing loss.
Other Causes of Hearing Loss in Young Adults
Additional causes of hearing loss include:
- Otosclerosis, an abnormal bone growth in the middle ear
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Genetic conditions
- Certain medications
- Infection
Challenges of Untreated Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be frustrating at any age. If you’re a younger adult who has trouble hearing your friends when you meet up at parties or grab dinner at Wonder Aleworks, you might start to experience feelings of loneliness and isolation. You might also feel self-conscious about dating or forming new relationships because your hearing difficulties make it harder to connect.
In addition to impacting your social life and relationships, hearing loss can also add stress to your work or school life. You may worry about missing important information during a meeting or worry that employers might view you as less capable if they know you struggle to hear.
Hearing Aids Make Life Easier
The good news is that hearing aids can significantly improve your ability to connect with others, boost your confidence at work and school, and benefit your overall health and wellbeing. Hearing aids make it easier to understand speech and sounds, and modern devices today are smaller, discreet, and similar to earbuds worn by many.
If you are struggling with your hearing, no matter your age, don’t delay in seeking treatment. Call the experts at LeMay Hearing & Balance today and schedule an appointment for a hearing test.