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Question
Hello, I am a 35 year old man. Yesterday I went through a hearing test. It was ok in general, apart from the 8,000 frequency where I could hear from 30 db instead of 20, from both ears. What does it practically mean? Is it normal for my age? Could it get worse?
Hi Apostolos,
The type of loss you have is the beginning of presbycusis - the loss of hearing that gradually occurs in most individuals as they grow older. Presbycusis most often occurs in both ears, affecting them equally. Because the process of loss is gradual, people who have presbycusis may not realize that their hearing is diminishing. The loss of hearing in presbycusis begins in the high frequencies and then over time may affect the middle and lower frequencies. The loss usually starts around the 40s, but depending on lifestyle and general health, can even start as early as the 30s or 20s. Right now, with the minimal loss you have, it most likely has no practical effect on communication. The most important thing to do to preserve your hearing is to avoid noise - the number one cause of preventable hearing loss. Also try to keep yourself in general good health as many disease states can diminish hearing.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology
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Answers by Expert:
Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.
Expertise
I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.
Experience
I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.
Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, -
American Speech Language Hearing Association, -
Hearing Loss Association of America
Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000.
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology)
Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
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