Hearing loss can have a profound effect on you, one that is about a lot more than the inability to hear things. Having trouble performing daily activities, and strained relationships are some examples of the general effect of loss of hearing.
A study carried out by AARP found that quality of life is more seriously impacted by hearing loss than:
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Obesity
- Stroke
There are many people who don’t get help with their hearing loss in spite of the fact that it gets in the way of their lifestyle. Lots of people who have hearing loss shun getting help because they believe that there is a stigma associated with hearing loss, according to researchers. People are concerned they will be treated differently if others know they suffer from hearing loss. It doesn’t matter how old they are, this perception can change the way they view themselves.
Many Other People Also Have Hearing Loss
Today, people are living longer, that means there are more individuals around with hearing loss, too, even though it doesn’t just affect older people. The World Health Organization reports that over 1.1 billion people are at risk of hearing loss and the perceived perceptions that come with it, many of them young adults. Hearing loss is, in fact, one of a young adult’s leading health threats. The resistance to getting help persists while the number of people with hearing loss increases. How does this impact one’s overall health?
What is The Perception of Hearing Loss?
The story is pretty well illustrated by the very definition of stigma, which is a brand that labels someone as inferior. Feeling older, less healthy, and less able are concerns that many with hearing loss have.
Historically, there is some basis for this concern. A 2010 study revealed when people have hearing loss they were not as well accepted. But the data from this research is almost 10 years old. As hearing loss becomes more widespread, this perception is improving. Celebrities visibly wear hearing aids and the technology is becoming more cutting edge, stylish, and fun. Research shows that some other age related health problems, such as dementia, could be slowed or even prevented by seeking treatment. This is changing peoples mind about hearing loss and also their hearts. Despite this, some people still won’t get the help they really need.
Why Does It Matter?
Don’t let your fear of negative perception keep you from seeking help or you could suffer permanent health consequences. People get colonoscopies, according to an AARP survey, more often than they get hearing tests. Not having a hearing examination because you won’t recognize your hearing loss will impact your health as you get older.
Consequences of Undiagnosed or Untreated Hearing Loss
Your general health will be impacted by these physical consequences;
Fatigue
In life, everything is harder when you are struggling to hear. Just attempting to hear conversations and normal sounds is hard work. Because you can’t hear traffic or that person coming up behind you, you have to put more energy into keeping safe also. Just working hard to hear common sounds can lead to chronic fatigue.
Migraines
You can suffer from headaches and migraines if you have too much anxiety and stress. You might not realize there is a correlation, but studies have shown a link between migraines and some kinds of hearing loss. Even if you don’t normally get migraines, your brain has to make up for what you can’t hear, and that constant struggle can cause your head to hurt.
Mental Health
You could possibly also face mental health issues as a consequence of your untreated hearing loss such as depression and social anxiety. Hearing loss can increase social isolation and has even been linked to dementia. Moodiness and reduced energy levels go along with these other issues.
It is Possible to Surmount The Negative Perception of Hearing Loss
Taking the first step and get help if you want to conquer these negative perceptions. If you are losing your hearing, it is treatable. Recognize that you are the one that suffers if you won’t get that treatment.
You also might be stressing out for no reason because not all hearing loss is permanent. You won’t know what the issue is unless you make an appointment to get a hearing exam. It could be simple earwax buildup.
Recognizing you have hearing loss is not enough, it’s important to take action. You can get hearing aids in all shapes and sizes nowadays. You can get hearing aids that are less visible if your worried about people learning you have hearing loss.
Most significantly, show everyone that you have lots of confidence despite your hearing loss. You can be just as active and healthy as anyone, so wear your hearing aids with confidence. Everyone who has hearing loss will also be benefited by your actions. Negative perceptions are social poisons so be strong and raise awareness to change them.
You don’t have to be less capable if you have hearing loss, because it’s actually a medical condition. Make an appointment to have a hearing test today.