Your overall life can be significantly affected by hearing loss, in a way that goes beyond the inability to hear. Losing your hearing can get in the way of everyday pursuits and can strain relationships.

A study carried out by AARP found that quality of life is more seriously impacted by hearing loss than:

• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• Obesity

There are lots of people who don’t seek help with their hearing loss despite the fact that it negatively impacts their lifestyle. A perceived stigma associated with hearing loss is one reason why people with hearing loss won’t seek out the help they need, say researchers. If others find out they have hearing loss, people are afraid they will be treated differently. This perception can change how they see themselves whether they are 8 or 80.

It’s Not Only You

As lifespans grow longer, hearing loss has become more commonplace, despite the fact that it can impact people of every age group, 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. Hearing loss is, as a matter of fact, one of a young adult’s greatest health threats. Persistent resistance to getting help continues while the amount of people who suffer from hearing loss grows. How does this impact one’s overall health?

What is The Perception of Hearing Loss?

A brand that labels someone as inferior is how people with hearing loss feel and that is the actual meaning of stigma. Feeling older, less healthy, and less able are concerns that many with hearing loss have.

Historically, there is some basis for this concern. A 2010 study revealed people were not as well accepted when they suffered from hearing loss. But that study uses data nearly a decade old. This perception is improving as hearing loss is becoming more widespread. Celebrities visibly wear hearing aids and the devices are becoming more sophisticated, stylish, and fun. Also helping to change hearts and minds, research shows that getting treatment might delay or prevent other health issues associated with aging like cognitive decline and dementia. Despite this, some people still won’t get the help they really need.

Does it Even Matter?

Don’t let your fear of negative perception stop you from getting help or you could suffer permanent health consequences. More people get colonoscopies than hearing tests according to an AARP survey. Not having a hearing test because you refuse to recognize your hearing loss will affect your health as you get older.

Untreated Hearing Loss, What Are The Consequences?

Your general health will be affected by these physical consequences;

Fatigue

In life, everything is harder if you are struggling to hear. Just attempting to hear conversations and common sounds is a difficult task. You also need to be extra careful to protect your safety because you can’t hear alert sounds or cars approaching. All the additional energy you put into daily tasks can lead to chronic fatigue.

Migraines

Headaches and even migraines can be triggered by anxiety and tension. You might not realize there is a correlation, but studies have shown a link between migraines and certain kinds of hearing loss. The constant extra effort of your brain to make up for what you can’t hear can cause your head to ache even if you don’t normally get migraines.

Mental Health

Anxiety and depression are some mental health issues you could also end up facing as a consequence of untreated hearing loss. Social isolation is increased by hearing loss and it can also lead to dementia. Moodiness and reduced energy levels go hand-in-hand with these other issues.

It is Possible to Surmount The Negative Perception of Hearing Loss

Surmounting these negative perceptions starts with seeking out help. Hearing loss is treatable. If you decide not to get help, you should understand that you are the one who suffers.

You also may be stressing out for no reason because not all hearing loss is permanent. You can’t be sure what the problem is unless you make an appointment to get a hearing exam. It could be simple earwax buildup.

Knowing you have hearing loss is not enough, it’s important to take action. Nowadays hearing aids come in many shapes and sizes. More inconspicuous styles are available if you feel worried about people finding out you have hearing loss.

Most significantly, show everyone that you have plenty of confidence despite your hearing loss. You can wear your hearing aids with confidence because when you can hear, you will be just as active and healthy as anyone else. Everyone who suffers from hearing loss will also be helped by your actions. Increase awareness and keep healthy by not surrendering to negative perceptions.

Hearing loss is a medical condition, not a problem. Get a hearing exam today.