Hearing Loss and its Impact in the Community

Abstract

Hearing is considered an important sense of the human being. Hearing impairment cannot be visible and hence its effects are not seen by others, so the deaf suffer in silence. Hearing impairment is not only a communication problem but also a community problem. Hearing loss, which is gradual and permanent, can be brought on by congenital or acquired damage to the auditory nerve and cochlear hair cells. It reduces the working ability and performance of an individual, thus diminishing one’s participation. Hearing loss is often associated with loneliness and social isolation which has an impact on cognitive and psychosocial health. Early identification of hearing impairment in a child is vital for effective management. Hearing loss has a detrimental impact on family dynamics and, as a result, the child’s development. The widespread prevalence of deafness necessitated a reliable management system and simple clinical implementation. This public health burden can be managed by raising awareness of hearing impairment. There are plenty of clinical assessment and therapy options in hearing impairment research, but lack of knowledge about it implies that public education or awareness should be prioritized more. This review article discusses the epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, clinical features, impact of hearing impairment, and its impact on the community along with current treatment options.