Due to the efforts of various organizations, we have become familiar with PTSD and traumatic injuries, but we often overlook the most common military service-related injury: hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Although the military has been implementing hearing conservation programs for decades, hearing aids for veterans are critical. A recent report states that more than 60% of veterans return home with some degree of hearing loss, with more than 445,000 currently receiving compensation for hearing loss and 395,000 for tinnitus.
Considering the sounds of war, the fact that service men and women suffer from varying degrees of hearing loss is no surprise. But there is hope. At Miracle-Ear, we’re committed to serving veterans by improving their access to hearing aids and quality hearing healthcare.
Permanent hearing damage is often a direct result of sudden, loud explosions, the roar of airplane or ship engines, or even gunfire. These loud noises can cause the sensitive hairs in the ear to become damaged and can even degenerate nerve cells in the ear. Once this happens, electrical signals aren’t properly transmitted and hearing loss occurs. Noise-induced hearing loss can be caused by a ruptured eardrum as well. Usually, sudden, loud sounds cause eardrums to rupture.
It's important to understand the signs of hearing loss, which include:
It’s important to remember that hearing loss is treatable. Miracle-Ear offers many hearing aid options for veterans suffering from hearing loss. With hearing aids, hearing - and quality of life - can be improved. Modern hearing aids are designed to be discreet and, unobtrusive and require minimal upkeep.
