How Does Hearing Loss Impact Your Life?

Hearing loss is something that impacts a wide range of people, young and old alike. However, because of how gradual this condition can develop, you may not notice the symptoms until you already have mild or moderate hearing loss. If you’re unsure whether or not you might have hearing loss, learning how it impacts your life if it remains untreated can help you to move forward and find the right solution for you.

The impact that untreated hearing loss has

There are several different ways that hearing loss can impact a person. This includes emotional problems, which are caused by a decline in confidence and self-esteem. People experiencing hearing loss can also experience social withdrawal due to reduced access to services and difficulties communicating with other people. In addition to the social and emotional consequences of hearing loss, there is also an increased risk of cognitive decline. Because the brain isn’t able to process sound as well as it once did, it can begin to atrophy. This can lead to a decline in your cognitive function because the brain goes without having to process as many sounds as it used to.

Different types of hearing loss

It is important to recognize that there are different types of hearing loss. Malfunctions in the middle or outer ear, or obstructions in the ear, can cause hearing loss. It can be caused due to impacted ear wax, a damaged eardrum, a middle or outer ear infection or malfunction. There is also sensorineural hearing loss, which is caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. It can be caused by certain medications and chemicals, for example, ototoxic medications, as well as diseases such as meningitis, exposure to loud noises, for example, loud music or machinery, as well as aging. There are other disorders of the ear as well, for example, acoustic neuroma, Meniere’s disease, as well as tinnitus.

Tips on speaking to another person with hearing loss

If you are speaking to someone who has hearing loss, there are a few things you can do when communicating to make the situation easier for both of you. Using a pen and paper can always be helpful if you are struggling. However, there are some other things you can do as well, including speaking expressively and using body, hand and face movements. Other tips include raising your voice if you have to but trying not to shout. In addition to this, you should speak more slowly than usual, as well as having the light on your face and not covering your mouth. You should also face the person and stand close to them, as well as getting their attention. There are some communication tips you should keep in mind as well if you are the person that has hearing loss. This includes asking questions about what you have missed, as well as advising people to gain your attention first and face you when speaking with you. You should also encourage people to speak more slowly and speak up when talking with you. Don’t be afraid of asking them to speak clearly, either. A lot of people are shy about their hearing loss, but there really is no need to be. Hearing loss is a lot more common than you may realize. Plus, people will be much more understanding when communicating with you, and this is going to make your life a lot easier. When you have hearing loss, it’s always advised to seek the guidance of an audiologist. They will be able to carry out tests to determine the extent of the hearing loss you are experiencing. They will then be able to advise you on the best hearing loss device for you. Once they have found the right hearing aid and you have agreed on this, they will then program it to ensure you benefit from optimal hearing assistance. A lot of people think that getting a hearing aid means everything is completed. However, getting the hearing aid programmed is just as important – if not more so. This is when the hearing aid is tweaked to ensure it accommodates your exact needs.

Contact Arkansas Professional Hearing Care today

If you have any queries about hearing loss or you are ready to get the assistance you need, all you need to do is give us a call today on Arkansas Professional Hearing Care. The number you need is (501) 588-0177.