Loss of hearing can have a profound impact on you, one that is about a lot more than the inability to hear things. Having difficulty performing daily tasks, and strained relationships are some examples of the overall effect of loss of hearing.
A survey conducted by AARP found that neglected hearing loss had a greater effect on quality of life than:
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Cancer
Despite the fact that it gets in the way of their lifestyle, a lot of people who have hearing loss refuse to seek treatment. Lots of people who suffer from hearing loss avoid getting help because they believe that there is a stigma attached to hearing loss, according to researchers. People are concerned they will be treated differently if others find out they have hearing loss. A distorted self image can be the result of this perception, affecting the young and the old.
It’s Not Only You
Today, people are living longer, that means there are more individuals out there with hearing loss, too, even though it doesn’t only impact older people. The World Health Organization reports that there are more than 1.1 billion people, many of them young adults, at risk of hearing loss and the public perception that comes with it. Hearing loss is, as a matter of fact, one of a young adult’s most significant health threats. Persistent resistance to getting help continues while the number of people who have hearing loss grows. How does this impact one’s general health?
What is The Perception of Hearing Loss?
A brand that labels a person as inferior is how sufferers of hearing loss feel and that is the meaning of stigma. Lots of people with hearing loss are concerned they will come across as older than they are, less healthy, or less capable.
Historically, there is some foundation for this worry. A 2010 study found people were not as well accepted when they had hearing loss. But the data from this research is almost a decade old. As hearing loss is becoming more widespread, this perception is improving. Hearing loss technology is becoming Stylish, fun, and sophisticated. Even celebrities are openly wearing hearing aids. Also helping to change hearts and minds, research indicates that getting treatment might delay or prevent other health concerns connected to aging such as cognitive decline and dementia. In spite of this, many people still don’t get the help they really need.
What Difference Does it Make?
There are health repercussions for not seeking treatment, so don’t allow your concern about negative perception stop you from seeking help. More people get colonoscopies than hearing tests according to an AARP survey. Not acknowledging your hearing loss, not getting a hearing exam and seeking treatment will take a physical toll, this is especially true over time.
Consequences of Undiagnosed or Untreated Hearing Loss
Your overall health will be affected by these physical consequences;
Fatigue
Everything in life is more tedious if you are struggling to hear. It becomes a difficult task to try and hear conversations and everyday sounds. You have to put more energy into staying safe, as well, because you can’t hear that car coming or someone walking behind you. You can become chronically fatigued just by trying to hear day-to-day sounds.
Migraines
Headaches and even migraines can be induced by stress and tension. Studies have shown a link, though you may not have recognized there was a correlation, between certain forms of hearing loss and migraines. Even if you don’t normally get migraines, your brain has to make up for the sounds you can’t hear, and that constant struggle can make your head hurt.
Mental Health
As a result of your untreated hearing loss, you may be facing mental health problems including depression and social anxiety. Loss of hearing can increase social isolation and has even been linked to dementia. Moodiness and reduced energy levels go along with these other challenges.
Conquering Negative Perceptions of Hearing Loss
Taking the first step and get help if you want to conquer these negative perceptions. Hearing loss is a treatable condition. If you decide not to get help, you should understand that you are the one who suffers.
You also could be stressing out over nothing because not all hearing loss is permanent. common earwax buildup can cause hearing loss, but you can’t be certain unless you make an appointment to have your hearing checked.
If you find out you do have hearing loss, you need to deal with it. Hearing aids come in many style options nowadays. More inconspicuous styles are available if you are concerned about people finding out you have hearing loss.
Above all, prove them wrong. You can be just as active and healthy as anyone, so wear your hearing aids with confidence. Your mindset will change people’s perception not only of you, but of everyone who experiences hearing loss. Negative perceptions are social poisons so be strong and raise awareness to change them.
Hearing loss is a medical condition, not a weakness. Make an appointment to have a hearing test today.