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Hearing loss is a common problem among older individuals. Approximately 25% to 40% of adults older than 65 years have some degree of hearing loss, and it is estimated that 40% to 66% of people aged 75 years and older have hearing loss. Hearing loss is the third most common chronic health condition among older Americans after high blood pressure and arthritis.

The April 16, 2003, issue of JAMA includes 2 articles on adult hearing loss.

TYPES OF HEARING LOSS

There are 2 major forms of hearing loss: conductive and sensorineural.

Conductive hearing loss is usually due to abnormalities in the middle or external ear, such as a punctured eardrum, presence of fluid in the middle ear, or accumulation of cerumen (ear wax) in the external ear canal. These problems require evaluation by a doctor and can often be successfully treated.

Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the tiny hairs inside . . . [Full Text of this Article]

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