More than 48 million people around the country experience hearing loss. Even though it is the third most common physical condition in the country (behind only arthritis and high blood pressure), there are a lot of misconceptions about the condition that keep people from seeking the treatment they need.
Below are the most common misconceptions about hearing loss.
Myth: Only Old People Experience Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is most common in older adults. One-third of people between the ages of 65 and 74 experience hearing loss; that number increases to half for those over the age of 75.
But about 40 percent of all Americans with hearing loss are under the age of 60. About two to three children out of every 1,000 are born with hearing loss. And those numbers continue to increase as children age.
Myth: Hearing Loss Is Caused by Noise Exposure
Attending frequent rock concerts without hearing protection can damage the delicate hairs within your inner ear. These hairs are responsible for sending auditory signals to your brain. The damage to the hairs is permanent, and when they are destroyed, they are gone forever. Working a job in construction, playing in a band and even listening to music through headphones can all damage your ears.
But noise induced hearing loss is just one of the many causes of hearing loss.
Myth: If You Can Still Hear, You Don’t Need Help Yet
Some may think their hearing loss is not severe enough to seek help, as they can still hear some sounds. But as with most medical conditions, the earlier you seek treatment, the better the results.
Most hearing loss will continue to worsen on its own. That means even though you can hear fine enough now, you won’t be able to soon enough.
Seeking help is not reserved for those with severe or profound hearing loss. Even if your hearing loss is mild, your audiologist can conduct a baseline hearing screening. They can then measure future hearing tests against your baseline for data on how much your hearing has changed.
Myth: Hearing Loss Only Affects Your Hearing
Untreated hearing loss affects more than just your ability to hear. Studies have shown that hearing loss can increase your risk of developing dementia, depression, anxiety and falls.
Now is the time to do something about your hearing loss. Contact the experts at The Audiologist Offices today to get started.
