Hearing loss can have a profound impact on you, one that is about a lot more than the inability to hear things. The loss of your hearing will impede everyday activities and can stress relationships.
A study conducted by AARP found that quality of life is more seriously impacted by hearing loss than:
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Obesity
- Cancer
The loss of hearing, when not treated, can definitely get in the way of your lifestyle, nevertheless, there are many people who don’t seek help. A perceived stigma associated with hearing loss is one reason why people with hearing loss don’t seek out the treatment they need, according to researchers. Being treated differently is one reason people who have hearing loss are scared to let anyone know they can’t hear very well. A distorted self image can be formed as a result of this perception, affecting the young and the old.
Your Not The Only One
These days, people are living longer, that means there are more individuals around with hearing loss, as well, even though it doesn’t just impact older people. The World Health Organization reports that over 1.1 billion people are in danger of hearing loss and the perceived perceptions that come along with it, many of them young adults. In fact, hearing loss is one of the most widespread health issues adults face. The resistance to getting help persists even while the amount of people with hearing loss increases. How does this impact one’s general health?
What is The Perception of Hearing Loss?
By definition, stigma means a brand that marks a person as inferior and that basically says it all. A lot of people with hearing loss are concerned they will seem older than they actually are, less healthy, or less able.
Historically, there is some basis for this worry. A 2010 study revealed when people have hearing loss they were not as well accepted. But the data from this study is nearly a decade old. As hearing loss is becoming more common, this perception is changing. Celebrities openly wear hearing aids and the technology is becoming more cutting edge, stylish, and fun. Research reveals that some other age related health problems, such as dementia, could be slowed or even prevented by getting treatment. This is changing peoples mind about hearing loss and also their hearts. Some people still won’t seek help in spite of this research.
Does it Even Matter?
It is easy to say that perception doesn’t matter, but if this anxiety is stopping you from seeking help, know that there are health consequences for not getting treatment. An AARP survey discovered that more people agree to get colonoscopies than hearing tests. Not acknowledging your hearing loss, not getting a hearing test and seeking treatment will take a physical toll, particularly over time.
Untreated Hearing Loss, What Are The Consequences?
Your general health will be impacted by these physical consequences;
Fatigue
Everything in life is more tedious if you are struggling to hear. Just attempting to hear conversations and normal sounds is a difficult task. You have to put more effort into keeping safe, also, because you can’t hear that vehicle coming or someone walking up from behind you. You will become chronically fatigued simply by attempting to hear common sounds.
Migraines
You can suffer from headaches and migraines if you have too much anxiety and stress. You might not recognize there is a connection, but studies have shown a link between migraines and certain types of hearing loss. Your brain needs to make up for what you can’t hear, so even if you’re not prone to migraines, the extra effort can make your headache.
Mental Health
You could also face mental health issues as a consequence of your untreated loss of hearing like depression and social anxiety. Hearing loss can lead to dementia and frequently results in social isolation. You will have less energy and will be moodier if you have these other issues.
The Negative Perception of Hearing Loss Can be Surmounted
Getting help is the step one to surmounting these negative perceptions. Hearing loss is a treatable condition. Accept that you are the one that suffers if you don’t get that treatment.
Not all loss of hearing is irreversible, either, so you could be stressing out for no reason. Something as simple as earwax buildup may be the cause, but you won’t know that unless you schedule an appointment to get a hearing test.
If you find out you do have hearing loss, do something about it. Nowadays you can get hearing aids in many shapes and sizes. If you don’t want other people to be aware of your condition, then get a device that is less visible.
Most significantly, show everyone that you have lots of confidence in spite of your hearing loss. You can be just as active and healthy as anyone, so wear your hearing aids with self-confidence. Your mindset will change people’s perception not just of you, but of everyone else who has hearing loss. Boost awareness and stay healthy by not surrendering to negative perceptions.
Hearing loss is a medical condition, not a weakness. Make an appointment to have a hearing test today.