Hearing-related conditions are the most common health issues that veterans navigate. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), nearly 3 million veterans receive disability benefits for hearing loss or tinnitus. Tinnitus describes a buzzing or ringing-like noise in one or both ears and is often a symptom of hearing loss – a chronic condition that reduces a person’s capacity to hear and process sound. Hearing loss produces a range of symptoms that can take a toll on daily life: strained communication, the stress in relationships, social withdrawal, etc. Veterans are up to four times more likely to have their hearing impaired. This increased vulnerability is due to noise exposure which can significantly impact hearing health.
Noise Induced Hearing Loss
One of the most common causes of hearing loss and tinnitus is environmental exposure to loud noise. One-time or consistent exposure to high volumes of sound can damage components critical to how we hear. Sound is measured in units referred to as decibels (dB) and 85dB and higher is considered potentially hazardous for hearing health. This is the equivalent of busy city traffic as well as household appliances like a vacuum cleaner or lawnmower.
Veterans are often around sources of noise that far exceed 85dB which includes the following:
- Operating heavy machinery
- Gunfire, bombs
- Aircrafts, tanks
Exposure to loud noise can damage the hair cells in the inner ear which work to translate soundwaves into electrical signals. These signals are then sent to the brain to be further processed, allowing us to understand what we hear. Loud noise can cause hair cells to lose sensitivity and/or die, damage that is irreparable. Hair cells, unlike other types of cells, do not regenerate and there are no medical interventions that can repair them. This means that damage is permanent, resulting in hearing loss.
Accessing VA Benefits
Receiving hearing healthcare is especially crucial for veterans. Being exposed to combat and other daily work activities that are dangerous for hearing puts veterans at such a high risk for developing hearing health issues. The VA offers useful services to help veterans navigate hearing healthcare. These services include:
- Health benefits: this encompasses low-cost to free hearing healthcare services that can include comprehensive testing and hearing aids
- Disability compensation: offers monthly tax free payments
To receive these benefits, you must be enrolled in the VA health benefits system. Veterans can apply for enrollment online, over the phone, or by visiting your local VA healthcare facility.
Treating Hearing Loss
Once approved, the next step is to schedule an appointment for a hearing test with a licensed hearing healthcare provider to determine what your hearing needs are. Hearing tests involve a noninvasive and painless process that measures hearing capacity in both ears. This identifies any hearing loss, the degree, and specific type of hearing loss you could be experiencing. Your hearing healthcare provider is then able to make recommendations for treatment options that will effectively meet your needs.
Hearing aids are the most common treatment for hearing loss. These electronic devices are designed to absorb, amplify, and process sound which provides significant hearing support. Hearing aids maximize hearing across all environments, allowing people to navigate daily life with greater ease. Like most electronic devices today, hearing aids have experienced much innovation. There is an array of options that have a range of features and technologies which enhance connectivity, sound quality, and overall listening experience. Treating hearing loss and wearing hearing aids not only transform hearing health but also strengthens communication, enhances relationships, enriches social life, and wellness.
Tips to Protect Hearing Health
In addition to treating hearing loss, there are several ways Veterans can protect their hearing health. This includes:
- Wearing protective gear: earplugs, earmuffs, and noise attenuating helmets are a few examples of protective gear that serve as a barrier for your ears. This reduces the amount and impact of noise that you absorb.
- Take listening breaks: it is important to rest your ears and brain from constantly absorbing and processing sound. You can do this by taking breaks throughout the day where you are in quieter settings.
- Hearing tests: get your hearing tested regularly (experts recommend yearly) which allows you to stay up to date on your hearing needs and adjust if there are any changes.