Impacts of Untreated Hearing Loss
Hearing loss affects the lives of almost 48 million Americans. That’s almost 15% of the American population!
Hearing loss can affect your quality of life. The impacts of untreated hearing loss may extend beyond just your hearing ability. Your hearing is more connected to your body than you may realize.
We’re taking a closer look at this connection, to understand the impacts of untreated hearing loss.
Understanding the Impacts of Untreated Hearing Loss
Untreated hearing loss can have physical, emotional and social implications. If you suspect that your hearing has changed, here are 4 reasons to book an appointment with your hearing healthcare specialists.
Hearing Loss and Your Health
An estimated 30 million people in the United States have diabetes. 90-95% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes, according to the CDC. Adults with diabetes are twice as likely to have a hearing loss, research from The National Institutes of Health (NIH) found.
Researchers are yet to identify what causes hearing loss in people with diabetes. Diabetes can potentially damage our nerves and blood vessels. Our ability to hear is dependent upon a network of blood vessels and nerves. If our auditory is affected by diabetes, our ability to hear can be impacted.
Hearing Loss and Your Wellbeing
The National Council on the Aging (NCOA) commissioned the Seniors Research Group to study the consequences of untreated hearing loss in older persons. The study surveyed 2,300 hearing impaired adults, aged 50 and above.
The results found that those with untreated hearing loss report a number of negative impacts. When compared to participants who are treating their hearing loss with hearing aids, those who are not using hearing aids were more likely to report: depression, anxiety, or paranoia.
Results also indicated that study participants with untreated hearing loss were less likely to participate or engage in organized social activities.
Hearing Loss and Your Brain
According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, “hearing loss may increase the risk of cognitive problems and even dementia.” A number of studies have looked at the links between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline.
Recently, a study by Newcastle University looked at how untreated hearing loss causes changes in our brain activity. These changes are often the result of untreated hearing loss.
Hearing Loss and Social Activity
Untreated hearing loss can put a strain on relationships. These could be relationships at work, with friends, or at home. Often, untreated hearing loss can leave both parties feeling frustrated.
A study from The Hearing Journal in May 2020 found that “hearing loss was associated with a higher risk of loneliness and social isolation.”
Treating Your Hearing Loss
Now that you have a deeper understanding of the impacts of untreated hearing loss, you may be wondering what you can do? Put simply – look after your hearing health.
Trust the Experts at Regional Hearing and Balance Center
Do you have any more questions? The hearing care professionals at Regional Hearing and Balance Center would be happy to help. Contact us today to request your appointment with our hearing care professionals.