Did you know that hearing loss is one of the most common medical conditions that people live with today? It is estimated that 1 in 8 people have some degree of hearing loss. But hearing loss still remains widely undertreated. According to the National Institute on Deafness & Other Communication Disorders, only 20% of people with hearing health related issues get treatment for it. This highlights that millions more people are living with untreated hearing loss which can take a toll on everyday life in major ways. It is important to intervene early by scheduling an appointment for a hearing test which is the first step towards accessing treatment.
Key Reasons Treatment is Avoided
It takes an average of 7 years for people to address their hearing loss. This delay and avoidance of treatment can worsen hearing loss and the multifaceted effects it can have on everyday life. There are several key reasons why treatment goes untreated, this includes:
- People do not realize they are experiencing hearing loss. Sometimes, avoiding hearing loss is not intentional. Because hearing loss typically occurs gradually, people may not be aware that they are experiencing it. Changes to hearing health can happen over time so symptoms can remain unnoticed for quite some time, contributing to a delay in treatment.
- They are in denial of their hearing loss. For some, it can be tough to acknowledge hearing loss. There is still a stigma associated with hearing loss and so people may feel embarrassed or even ashamed around their impaired hearing. People may downplay their symptoms and/or think that their hearing is just fine.
- People often think hearing loss is not a big deal. A common misconception about hearing loss is not that it is not a serious health issue. People often think that because they can still hear, their hearing is good enough. Also, it is common to not know that hearing loss can worsen the longer it remains untreated.
- There is concern about expenses related to treatment. Another barrier for treatment is concern for medical expenses. People can avoid health issues in order to avoid pricey medical expenses. But it is important to know that there are cost effective options.
These factors illuminate why hearing loss treatment can be avoided. But it is crucial to understand that untreated hearing loss symptoms can really take a toll on your health and everyday life in major ways.
Impact of Untreated Symptoms
Hearing loss can have significant effects that impact how you navigate and engage in everyday life. This includes:
- Straining communication: hearing loss symptoms make it tough to navigate conversations. People may experience miscommunication, feeling lost or left out of conversations, unpleasant interactions etc.
- Social withdrawal: because conversations become laborious and difficult, it is common for people to avoid them altogether. This includes skipping out on social events, spending less time with loved ones, and completely retreating. Social withdrawal is a common effect of untreated hearing loss.
- Taking a toll on relationships: strained communication and social withdrawal also impacts relationships. People can often spend less time with loved ones, keep conversations short, and get into arguments over not treating hearing loss or the volume of the TV etc. This contributes to distance and frustration, straining relationships.
- Increasing health risks: extensive research shows that untreated hearing loss can increase health risks. This includes cognitive decline, depressive symptoms, falls, and accidental injuries.
These effects of untreated hearing loss can impact health, happiness, and quality of life. This underscores the importance of intervening to address hearing loss.
Treating Hearing Loss Today
Treating hearing loss involves a painless process! The first step is to schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation. Hearing tests are noninvasive and measure your hearing capacities in both ears. This identifies any hearing loss and the degree of impairment you are experiencing. Once your hearing needs are identified, your hearing healthcare provider is able to tailor treatment to meet those needs. There are effective hearing solutions that transform health and wellness. Treating hearing loss not only improves hearing but also strengthens communication. This enhances relationships, social life, and overall health.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation!