Man with hearing loss looks concerned but won't get hearing aids.

Your life can be seriously affected by hearing loss, in a way that goes beyond the inability to hear. Having difficulty carrying out daily tasks, and strained relationships are some examples of the overall effect of loss of hearing.

A study carried out by AARP found that quality of life is more seriously impacted by hearing loss than:

  • Obesity
  • Stroke
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes

Despite the fact that it gets in the way of their lives, a lot of people who have hearing loss refuse to get treatment. Researchers have found that a lot of people experiencing hearing loss are still anxious about a perceived stigma attached to it. If others find out they have hearing loss, people are scared they will be treated differently. An altered self image can be the result of this perception, affecting the young and the old.

Many Others Also Have Hearing Loss

Even though it can effect people of any age, it is true that as lifespans grow longer there are more instances of hearing loss. The World Health Organization reports that over 1.1 billion people are at risk of hearing loss and the perceived perceptions that come along with it, many of them young adults. In fact, hearing loss is one of the most widespread health issues adults face. Persistent resistance to getting help continues even while the amount of people who suffer from hearing loss increases. What is the impact on overall health?

How Is Hearing Loss Viewed?

A brand that labels someone as inferior is how sufferers of hearing loss feel and that is the actual definition of stigma. The concern for a lot of people with hearing loss is that they will appear less able, older, and possibly less healthy.

Historically, there is some foundation for this worry. A 2010 study revealed people were not as well accepted when they had hearing loss. But that study is based on data almost 10 years old. This perception is improving as hearing loss is becoming more commonplace. Cutting edge, stylish, and fun technology is currently available that even has celebrities openly wearing hearing aids. Research shows that some other age related health issues, such as dementia, may be slowed or even prevented by getting treatment. This is changing peoples mind about hearing loss and also their hearts. In spite of this, some people still won’t get the treatment they really need.

What Difference Does it Make?

It is easy to say that perception doesn’t matter, but if this fear is preventing you from seeking help, understand that there are health consequences for not getting treatment. People get colonoscopies, according to an AARP survey, more often than they get hearing tests. Not recognizing your hearing loss, not getting a hearing examination and seeking treatment will take a physical toll, this is especially true over time.

Untreated Hearing Loss, What Are The Consequences?

Your general health will be impacted by these physical consequences;

Fatigue

Finding it difficult to hear makes pretty much everything in life more challenging. Just trying to hear conversations and common sounds is a difficult task. You also have to be extra careful to protect your safety because you can’t hear warning sounds or vehicles approaching. You will become chronically fatigued simply by attempting to hear everyday sounds.

Migraines

You can suffer from headaches and migraines if you have too much anxiety and stress. Studies have shown a link, though you may not have recognized there was a connection, between some forms of hearing loss and migraines. Your brain needs to make up for the sounds you can’t hear, so even if you’re not prone to migraines, the constant effort can make your headache.

Mental Health

You might also be facing mental health problems as a result of your untreated hearing loss like depression and social anxiety. Social isolation is increased by hearing loss and it can also lead to dementia. These issues, in turn, often come with physical symptoms such as reduced energy levels or moodiness.

It is Possible to Overcome The Negative Perception of Hearing Loss

Surmounting these negative perceptions begins with seeking out help. If you are losing your hearing, it’s probably a treatable condition. Understand that you are the one that suffers if you don’t get that treatment.

You also may be stressing out for no reason because not all hearing loss is permanent. common earwax buildup can cause hearing loss, but you won’t know for sure unless you make an appointment to have your hearing checked.

If it turns out you do have hearing loss, you need to deal with it. Hearing aids come in many shapes and sizes these days. You can get devices that are less noticeable if your concerned about people learning you have hearing loss.

You can prove everyone wrong if you handle your hearing loss in a confident way. You can wear your hearing aids with confidence because when you can hear, you will be just as active and healthy as anyone else. Everyone who experiences hearing loss will also be benefited by your actions. Raise awareness and stay healthy by not surrendering to negative perceptions.

Hearing loss is a medical condition, not a problem. Make an appointment to have a hearing exam today.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.
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