HEARING: definition, prevalence and etiology

SENSORY IMPAIRMENTS

Sensory impairments consist of hearing and visual impairments

Hearing Impairment: hearing disability that includes the deaf and hard of hearing

 

Impairments

Outer Ear Middle Ear Inner Ear External otitis (swimmer’s ear) Otitis media-mucosal lining of middle ear becomes inflamed and the cavity fills with fluid (most common ear infection in children) Presbycusis- deafness of age is the most common cause of auditory defect Auditory atresia (missing or undeveloped auditory canals) Otosclerosis- hereditary condition, destruction of the capsular bone in middle ear and the growth of a web-like bone that attaches to and restricts the stapes Microtia (mis-shapen or extremely small pinna)

 

Prevalence of Hearing Impairments

·      Inconsistent translations

·      Confusion regarding identification and reporting

·      Methodological problems in surveys and shortage of research in areas

·      Difficulties in accurate early identification of hearing loss

·      Increased of hearing impairment with age

·      Difficulties in estimating hearing impairments among individuals with multiple disabilities, who are often reported according to their primary disability

Etiology

Audiologists are involved in assessments for hearing, recommendations, and fittings.

Otolaryngologists are medical personnel who deal with the ear, nose, and throat that affect hearing and speech.