Hearing Loss Treatment in the New River Valley
Changes in hearing can happen gradually—sometimes so slowly that people adjust without realizing how much they’re missing. You may find conversations harder to follow, voices seem unclear, or background noise becomes overwhelming. These experiences are common, and addressing them early can make a meaningful difference in your daily life.
At New River Valley Hearing & Balance, our goal is to help you understand what may be affecting your hearing and offer solutions that support clarity and confidence. Whether you’re exploring answers for the first time or seeking deeper insight into long-standing concerns, we provide guidance rooted in compassion, expertise, and dedication to patient care. With offices in Radford and Floyd, VA, comprehensive hearing support is always close by.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can occur at any age, but it often becomes more noticeable as the inner ear naturally changes over time. Factors that may contribute include:
- Repeated exposure to loud environments such as machinery, concerts, power tools, or firearms
- Certain medications that may affect the auditory system when used in high doses or long-term
- Viral or bacterial infections involving the ear
- Head or ear injuries
- Earwax buildup that blocks sound transmission
- Hereditary factors that affect how the ear processes sound
Understanding which factors may be involved helps us determine the most effective next steps—whether that means hearing aids, wax removal, lifestyle adjustments, or other recommendations.
Signs and Symptoms of Hearing Loss
The earliest signs of hearing loss are often subtle. Many people realize something has changed only after experiencing frequent misunderstandings or increased listening fatigue. You may be noticing hearing challenges if:
- Speech sounds muffled or unclear, especially in groups
- Background noise makes it hard to focus on the person speaking
- You frequently ask others to repeat themselves
- TV, music, or phone volume feels too low unless turned up significantly
- Social settings feel tiring or stressful
- You experience ringing or buzzing (tinnitus), which often accompanies hearing loss
- Conversations require more concentration or effort than before
If any of these feel familiar, a hearing test is a simple and insightful first step.
Types of Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
The most common type, caused by changes within the inner ear or auditory nerve. While typically permanent, it can often be managed effectively with hearing aids or other sound-support technologies.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Occurs when something blocks sound from traveling through the outer or middle ear. This may involve wax buildup, fluid from an infection, or eardrum concerns. Conductive loss is often temporary and may improve with appropriate care.
Mixed Hearing Loss
A combination of conductive and sensorineural factors. Some components may be reversible, while others may benefit from long-term support such as hearing devices.
Identifying the type of hearing loss is an important step in creating a personalized treatment plan that supports your communication needs and lifestyle.
Options for Managing Hearing Loss
Many individuals experience significant improvement with hearing aids designed to:
- Enhance speech clarity
- Reduce background noise
- Support more natural listening
- Connect to smartphones, TVs, and other devices
Additional options may include:
- Assistive listening devices
- Listening strategies for home, work, and public spaces
- Sound therapy for tinnitus associated with hearing loss
- Wax removal or medical referral if an underlying condition is identified
Your provider will guide you through the options that best match your goals.
Why Early Action Helps
Addressing hearing concerns early helps maintain strong communication skills, reduces listening fatigue, and supports emotional and social well-being. Many people feel more confident and connected once they understand the source of their hearing challenges and receive appropriate support.
Take Your Next Step Toward Clearer Hearing
Hearing loss does not have to define your daily life. If you’ve noticed changes or simply want reassurance about your hearing health, the team at New River Valley Hearing & Balance is here to help.
Call 540-731-4327 or schedule your visit today.