Hearing loss is one of the most common chronic ailments affecting Americans. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), 48 million Americans have a hearing loss, including 17% of our adult population. Hearing loss is not difficult to diagnose, but many people live with hearing loss for years before receiving a diagnosis and pursuing treatment such as hearing aids. In fact, it takes an average of seven years for someone to seek treatment for their hearing loss, from the time they first notice it. Delays in seeking hearing loss help can cause problems to compound and often results in other mental and physical complications.
Why People Delay Treating Hearing Loss
There are many reasons for this delay, from fear of looking old to the cost of hearing aids. Hearing loss most often occurs gradually so often a person doesn’t realize they have a problem until their friends and family point it out. There is a myth around hearing loss that suggests treating hearing loss is not necessary to live a fully engaged life. This isn’t true. Studies show that people who improve their hearing with hearing aids more often reported better relationships with their families, better feelings about themselves, improved mental health, and greater independence and security. The true cost of hearing loss on health, income, and emotions is far greater than the initial outlay for hearing aids. That’s why it is critical to recognize the early symptoms of hearing loss and seek treatment right away. If you think you or your loved one might be suffering from hearing loss, read on to learn more about the symptoms and signs.
Social Signs of Hearing Loss
You may notice a number of early warning signs and changes in your behavior that may be related to hearing loss when interacting in social situations. You may begin to:
- Complain that people are mumbling or speaking too softly
- Strain to hear conversations, especially when in a group setting
- Miss the dialogue at the movies or during live theater productions
- Find your self frequently having to ask people to repeat what they have said
- You may refer the television louder than other people
- The telephone becomes harder to hear when speaking
- Have trouble understanding people when you cannot see their faces
Emotional Signs of Hearing Loss
The psychological effects of untreated hearing loss for both children and adults can include increased outbursts of anger, low self-confidence, frustration, embarrassment and depression. Adults may experience periods of sadness and grieving as their ability to hear diminishes. They also may feel more fatigued, as the struggle to hear and understand can be physically exhausting. When hearing loss is ignored, it can lead to the following;
- Social interaction – Hearing loss progresses slowly and, over time, people who have it tend to begin withdrawing from social situations that prove too challenging.
- Income – When hardworking professionals feel the lack of confidence that can come from not being able to contribute at work, it can lead to feelings of insecurity and lead you to miss important financial opportunities.
- Family relationships – When people feel they aren’t being heard they can become isolated and depressed. People with untreated hearing loss say they sometimes experience feelings of frustration, annoyance and sadness. All of these put a strain on family and romantic relationships.
Physical Signs of Hearing Loss
Potential health impacts from hearing loss can include headaches, muscle tension, and increased stress and blood pressure levels. Some studies have linked untreated hearing loss in adults to depression, fatigue, social withdrawal and a higher risk of developing dementia. Not only that but hearing loss can increase your risk of falls, more frequent hospitalization and life expectancy.
Treat Your Hearing Loss Sooner Than Later
In most cases, your hearing loss is only going to become more severe over time and so dose your risk of compromising your relationships and your mental and physical health. The sooner you treat your hearing loss using hearing aids, the sooner you can get back to the things in life that you truly love. Contact us at Hearing Centers of Indiana to set up an appointment for a hearing test. We can help you find the best hearing aids for your needs and lifestyle and have you hearing with ease and style.