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Presbycusis (Age-Related Hearing Loss)

Progressive hearing loss due to aging

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Presbycusis (Age-Related Hearing Loss)?

Presbycusis is age-related hearing loss caused by degeneration of cochlear hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons. It affects roughly one in three adults aged 65 and over and half of those over 75.

It begins in the high frequencies (impacting speech intelligibility), is bilateral, symmetric and progresses insidiously. Speech can be understood in quiet settings, but conversation in noisy environments becomes very difficult.

If left untreated, it predisposes to social isolation, depression and cognitive decline.

Symptoms

Hearing speech but failing to understand it ("What?")
Asking for louder speech or turning up the TV
Difficulty understanding in crowded settings
Missing high-frequency consonants such as S, F, T, K
Tinnitus (accompanies most cases)
Social withdrawal and fatigue

Risk Factors

Advanced age (primary risk factor)
History of long-term noise exposure
Cardiovascular disease and diabetes
Use of ototoxic medications
Smoking
Genetic predisposition

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When difficulty understanding speech develops
  • If the TV or music volume keeps increasing
  • Avoidance behavior in social settings
  • When family members notice hearing problems
  • For annual hearing screening above age 65

Treatment Methods

01
Hearing aids (most effective first-line treatment)
02
Cochlear implant (severe to profound hearing loss)
03
Auditory rehabilitation and lip-reading training
04
Environmental adjustments (T-coil phones, vibrating doorbells)
05
Cognitive training programs
06
Social support and family education

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.