Thanks to the internet, there’s a lot of information about hearing loss, some of which is untrue. This has resulted in many misconceptions around this topic. Separating the facts from fictions is key to ensuring you’re well informed and can confidently make informed choices when it comes to hearing loss matters. Discussed below are four myths about hearing loss that have been debunked.
1. Hearing loss only affects seniors
Most people believe that hearing loss is a condition that only affects older adults. However, this is far from the truth. Statistics suggest that hearing loss affects around 60.7 million Americans aged 12 and above. They further indicate that 44.1 million American adults aged 20 and more have some hearing loss level. This is solid proof that hearing loss isn’t just a disorder for seniors, but it can affect people of all ages.
If you suspect that you’re losing your hearing, it’s important to see a qualified audiologist as soon as possible. This specialist will conduct comprehensive hearing tests and recommend the best possible treatment for your hearing loss and other related disorders like tinnitus. They can also give hearing aids based on one’s listening needs and provide auditory rehabilitation.
2. You’ll notice hearing loss immediately after it starts developing
While many people believe they’ll recognise hearing loss immediately after they start experiencing it, that is untrue. This is because hearing loss isn’t easy to detect. Stressors and ageing usually destroy the tiny hair cells in your ears that are responsible for making hearing possible.
As the damage continues, your hearing ability gradually diminishes. This damage makes it difficult to detect hearing loss. The misconception that hearing loss only affects older adults can make you ignore your hearing problems.
Additionally, the fact that many people aren’t aware of the symptoms of hearing loss or don’t go for routine hearing check-ups can make it hard to notice that they’re losing their hearing ability. Understanding the signs of hearing loss and scheduling routine hearing tests can help ensure this disorder is diagnosed and treated on time.
3. Hearing loss can’t be treated
It’s a common belief that hearing loss can’t be treated. However, this is just a misconception. You can get assistance for your hearing concerns. Nevertheless, treatment varies depending on the cause of hearing loss and the severity of the problem. These treatment options include:
- Hearing aids: Where hearing loss is a result of inner ear damage, hearing aids can help
- Surgery: Hearing loss resulting from regular infections that lead to fluids in the ear, your healthcare provider can recommend surgery to install small tubes for draining the ears
- Removing earwax: Hearing impairment can also be caused by earwax blockage. This kind of hearing loss can be fixed through earwax removal
- Cochlear implants: These implants come in handy where regular hearing aids aren’t helping. They go around the inner ear parts with problems to stimulate the hearing nerve
4. Hearing loss only affects your listening ability
Contrary to popular belief, hearing loss isn’t an isolated health problem. It’s associated with other health concerns. Comorbidities associated with hearing loss include:
- Social isolation and loneliness
- Falls
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Dementia and cognitive impairment
- Mortality
Endnote
Considering the many misconceptions around hearing loss, it’s easy to be misled and make the wrong decisions. Familiarising yourself with the debunked myths about hearing loss can be helpful.
