Causes of Hearing Loss Can Affect Anyone in FL, GA, WI, NC, and SC
While hearing loss is a growing concern among patients at Elite Hearing Centers of America in FL, GA, WI, NC, and SC and millions of people worldwide, did you know that some of your favorite celebrities also suffer from it? Many are still very active in their fields, thanks to the help of hearing care providers. Celebrities are often part of rigorous schedules, loud concerts, and noisy movie sets, increasing their risk of hearing loss. You might be surprised to learn about some famous celebrities who have openly discussed their hearing damage and the proactive approach they've taken to help drive awareness about this worldwide problem.
Causes of Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Sensorineural hearing loss is typically caused by damage to the hair cells in the cochlea or the nerve pathways from the inner ear to the brain. What causes hearing loss? Common reasons include aging, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, and illnesses such as Ménière's disease or otosclerosis. It's no wonder musicians who play multiple live concerts throughout the year and actors on the sets of loud movie productions are prone to this type. Congenital conditions and genetic disorders can also result in sensorineural hearing loss.
Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound can't pass from the outer ear canal to the eardrum. Several factors cause this, including ear infections, fluid buildup, allergies, poor Eustachian tube function, clogged earwax, ear canal infections, or ear malformations.
Will.i.am
Will.i.am, best known as the lead vocalist of the Black Eyed Peas, has come out to discuss his hearing loss caused by tinnitus. He revealed his condition developed from exposure to loud music during concerts and his music sessions. Will.i.am focuses on sound therapy measures such as avoiding loud music and wearing hearing protection to manage his condition.
Barbra Streisand
Famous singer and actress Barbra Streisand has hearing loss due to Meniere's disease. She revealed how the condition makes her suffer from vertigo, ringing sounds in her ears, and hearing loss. Despite this, Streisand continues to perform and use hearing aids while exploring alternative treatments, including acupuncture and Chinese herbs.
Robert Redford
Actor and director Robert Redford has been wearing hearing aids for over 30 years. Although he claims to have some challenges with his hearing, he manages to stay active in Hollywood and continue to produce and direct movies. According to Redford,
hearing aids allow him to stay engaged in conversations and enjoy the sounds of nature.
Halle Berry
Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry revealed she is partially deaf in her left ear after suffering from an abusive relationship. Berry initially thought she had a sinus problem until she realized she had hearing loss and sought
a hearing assessment and medical attention. Although she has good hearing in her other ear, Berry continues to use hearing aids for her left ear and helps people who have experienced domestic abuse.
Brian Johnson
Brian Johnson, the lead singer of AC/DC, developed hearing loss, ultimately forcing him to leave the band in 2016. He revealed he suffered from hearing loss after years of exposure to loud music concerts, one of the many common causes of hearing loss for musicians. Johnson continues to explore alternative therapies, such as vibration sound therapy, to manage his condition.
Pete Townsend
In 1976, The Who performed a concert for 80,000 fans and entered the Guinness World Record book as the "Globe's Loudest Band," hitting 126 decibels. Pete Townsend, the legendary guitarist, and songwriter for The Who, has noise-induced hearing loss due to too many nights like these and extensive studio time. He's been candid about his battles with loss and tinnitus. His condition is severe, and he's been quoted that his symptoms from hearing loss sound like "whistling in the ear" and "music now physically hurts." Despite these challenges, Townsend strongly advocates for hearing loss awareness and prevention, demonstrating to fans and fellow musicians that hearing protection is essential in the music industry.
Get the Care You Need for Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is a growing concern; nobody is immune to it, not even celebrities. At Hearing Care Centers of America in FL, GA, WI, NC, and SC, we help patients understand what causes hearing loss and provide solutions to improve their lives. The above-listed celebrities inspire and remind us that hearing loss does not discriminate and can affect anyone. Most importantly, these celebrities remind us there is no shame in seeking help, whether using hearing aids, exploring alternative therapies, or practicing hearing protection measures. If you notice any signs of hearing loss,
locate one of our hearing care centers near you to schedule a free hearing test.
