Living in San Francisco, residents are exposed to the noises of a bustling city each day. In most cities, noise is a constant companion. The urban soundscape can have a significant impact on your hearing health.
About 9.8% of San Francisco residents have some form of hearing loss, aligned with the California average. San Francisco also trails the nation, where 11.6% of people in the United States have some form of hearing loss. With this awareness, you can be more aware of the impact of city sounds on your hearing health and take steps to protect your hearing.
Types Of Hearing Loss
It’s helpful to understand the three types of hearing loss in order to best protect your hearing or see a hearing specialist when needed.
The three types of hearing loss are:
- Conductive hearing loss: Conductive hearing loss is often temporary, occurring when sound cannot travel through the outer and middle ear. It can be due to earwax buildup, an ear infection or a structural abnormality. Treatment requires seeing a hearing specialist.
- Sensorineural hearing loss: This type of hearing loss is more likely to be permanent and arises from damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. Causes may include aging, exposure to loud noises, medications and various other health concerns. Common treatments include hearing aids or cochlear implants.
- Mixed hearing loss: Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both types and requires the treatment of a hearing specialist.
To protect your hearing in any city or as you navigate day-to-day in general, consider these measures to reduce your exposure to loud noises or treat your hearing loss.
What to consider:
- Use hearing protection like earplugs when in loud environments, such as concerts or sporting events.
- Keep personal devices at a reasonable volume, especially when using headphones or earbuds.
- Take quiet breaks. Find serene locations throughout the city, like the Presidio of San Francisco, to give your ears a rest.
- If you’re experiencing signs of hearing loss, such as difficulty following conversations in noisy environments, ringing in the ears or a need to raise the volume, see a hearing specialist.
Whether it’s taking preventative measures or seeking treatment for existing hearing loss, staying informed is key. Protect your hearing or treat your hearing loss by contacting San Francisco Audiology to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist today.