Kyle Kuhlman, BCHIS ~
Hearing loss should be treated the same way as ministering to a sickness or health issue. Make an appointment to see your doctor. Patients often tell their doctors, “I hear what I want to hear.” But do they know if they hear everything? What are the consequences of neglecting to treat hearing loss, and what are the advantages of treating hearing loss sooner rather than later?
First, we need to remember that the brain interprets the sounds or signals that create speech. When a person has a hearing loss, some signals are not being relayed to the brain. Our brain is like any other muscle in our body, and it needs a regular workout. Without that workout, the brain tends to deteriorate. That old saying, “If you don’t use it, you may lose it,” definitely applies to your hearing. Researchers from Johns Hopkins and the National Institute on Aging have linked hearing loss to an increased risk of developing dementia and losing cognitive skills faster. The findings add to a growing list of health consequences associated with hearing loss, including increased risk of falls, hospitalizations and diminished physical and mental health.
Hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression and anxiety. It can affect work as well. One study found that improving hearing by using hearing aids reduced the risk of income loss by 90-100% for milder hearing loss and 65-77% for severe to moderate hearing loss. 1
Don’t wait. If you have a hearing loss, it is in your best interest to be tested by a hearing healthcare professional. It’s an easy process, and there is no studying or needles needed. If it is determined that hearing aids are the best option, it is always better to receive that help sooner than later.
BIO: Kyle Kuhlman is a board-certified, licensed Hearing Instrument Specialist with Eye Surgeons Associates. His expertise is specifically in late-onset nerve deafness in ranges from very mild to severe.
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The material contained in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.
