The Hidden Risks of Hearing Loss

Did you know that one in five American adults has some form of hearing loss? That’s a lot of people! And what’s even more alarming is that most of them don’t even know it. This blog post will discuss the hidden risks of hearing loss and everything from recognizing the signs of hearing loss to the treatments available. So, if you’re concerned about your hearing or you think someone you love might be affected by it, keep reading!

What are the Hidden Risks of Hearing Loss?

Unfortunately, untreated hearing loss can cause a number of different problems with your mental and physical health. From depression to an increased risk of falls, it’s important to get hearing loss treated to prevent an increase in medical complications:

• Social isolation: Hearing loss can lead to social isolation, as it becomes more and more difficult for people with hearing impairments to communicate with others. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
• Cognitive decline: Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of cognitive declines, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
• Balance issues: People with severe hearing loss may experience balance problems due to their inability to detect the direction a sound is coming from. This can cause falls and other accidents.
• Risk of injury: People with hearing loss may be in danger if they cannot hear warning sounds, such as smoke alarms or sirens. This can lead to serious injuries or even death.
• Tinnitus: Tinnitus is a symptom of an underlying condition that causes ringing in the ears and is often associated with hearing loss. It can be extremely distracting and difficult to cope with.

How Do You Know If You Have Hearing Loss?

There are several signs of hearing loss that you should look out for:

• Difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments.
• Asking people to repeat themselves often.
• Turning up the volume on the TV or radio that is too loud for other people.
• Not hearing doorbells, phones ringing or other warning sounds.
• Feeling like your ears are constantly plugged or full of pressure.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be time to have a hearing test done by a hearing health professional. The test will determine the degree and type of hearing loss you have and whether or not treatment is necessary.

What Treatments Are Available?

The good news is that there are a variety of treatments available for hearing loss. Depending on the severity and type of hearing loss, treatments may include:

Hearing Aids

Hearing aids amplify sound and make it easier to hear. There are several different types, from in the ear (ITE), behind the ear (BTE) and in the canal (ITC).

• ITE is a custom-made device that fits in the outer bowl of your ear. This hearing aid is small, comfortable and discreet making it hardly noticeable.

• BTE is a device worn behind the ear that sits outside of the ear and amplifies sound. A BTE hearing aid is one of the most commonly used hearing aids as it is adjustable and easy to use.

• ITC is a hearing aid that fits partly inside the ear canal. This device is known for its discreteness and is often used for mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

Assistive listening devices

Assistive listening devices, such as personal amplifiers and alerting systems, can be used to help people with hearing impairments in their daily lives. These devices help make everyday activities easier by providing clear sound amplification or audible warnings when needed.

Hearing therapy

Hearing therapy can help people with hearing impairments learn how to communicate better. It can also help them adjust to their new hearing environment and become more comfortable using assistive devices, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants.

Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can lead to a variety of hidden risks if left untreated, including social isolation, cognitive decline, balance issues, risk of injury and tinnitus. However, there are treatments available for those with hearing impairments. Hearing aids and cochlear implants can be used to improve hearing, while assistive listening devices and hearing therapy can help people adjust to their new hearing environment.

No matter what type or severity of hearing loss you have, it is important to address any symptoms as soon as possible to reduce the risks associated with it. Call Park Place Hearing Center at (707) 283-7853 to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist today.