When people experience hearing loss, they do not only lose their hearing. They also lose a degree of connection to the outside world. Unfortunately, many hearing loss myths abound. Do not let the following myths about hearing loss get in the way of pursuing effective treatment.
Myth: Hearing Loss Is Inevitable
People may be under the impression that hearing loss is simply part of aging or that it’s bound to occur in a loud work environment. The truth is that hearing loss is not inevitable because people can take steps to protect their ears from hazardous noises both at work and at home. Using ear protection, such as customized earplugs, can help protect the nerve endings of the inner ear from becoming damaged.
Myth: Hearing Loss Only Affects the Elderly
While some hearing loss is age-related, the truth is that hearing loss can affect people of any age, including the very young. In fact, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that 2 to 3 of every 1,000 children born in the United States have hearing loss in at least one ear, and 15% percent of adults ages 18 and older have some degree of trouble hearing.
Myth: People Know When They’re Losing Their Hearing and Need Hearing Aids
It’s hard for a person with hearing loss to notice their reduced hearing capacity because hearing loss tends to come on very gradually. The truth is that people may not know when they’re losing their hearing, and they may blame external factors (such as another person speaking too softly), instead of recognizing that they’re struggling to hear. That is why it’s important to get routine hearing assessments.
Myth: Hearing Aids Will Make Everything Sound Too Loud
Many people considering getting hearing aids are concerned that they will amplify sounds too greatly and cause considerable background noise, which could potentially be more unbearable than not being able to hear at all. However, the truth about these hearing aid myths is that sounds may seem “too loud” when a person gets new hearing aids because they’ve adapted to not being able to hear the sounds in their environment. However, over time, their brains will readjust to the new level of sound.
Myth: Hearing Loss Is Hearing Loss—It’s All the Same
Hearing loss can occur for different reasons, and the truth is that it’s not all the same. There are two general types of hearing loss: sensorineural hearing loss (which stems from problems with the nerve endings in the inner ear) and conductive hearing loss (caused by problems in the middle and outer parts of the ear). Getting examined by an audiologist to identify a person’s specific type of hearing loss is essential to getting the correct treatment.
Myth: I Can Hear in One Ear, So I Only Need One Hearing Aid
People with hearing loss may believe they only need a hearing aid in the “bad” ear—however, the truth is that experts recommend bilateral hearing aids (one in each ear) because most people with hearing loss are affected on both sides. In fact, research shows that people have better speech recognition when they’re wearing two hearing aids, as opposed to one.
Myth: Hearing Loss Is Inconvenient but Harmless
Hearing loss can certainly be inconvenient, but the truth is that hearing loss is far from harmless. Not only can hearing loss get in the way of personal relationships—but it can also put a person in danger (for example, if they cannot hear an approaching emergency vehicle). Additionally, researchers believe hearing loss may increase a person’s risk of cognitive decline.
Myth: Hearing Aids Are Just Too Expensive
If the price of hearing aids is holding a person back, the truth is they likely can’t afford not to get hearing aids. The ability to hear is vital to living life on one’s own terms, and living without adequate hearing can take a toll. An audiologist can help a person find the type of hearing aid that matches their financial situation, so they can get back to enjoying life.
Finding Treatment for Hearing Loss
If you or a loved one are navigating a hearing-related condition, it’s essential to see an audiologist. An audiologist can evaluate your hearing and create a specialized treatment plan that fits your needs. With leading edge technology and skilled, professional staff, Sonora Hearing Care is the resource you need for audiology treatment, diagnosis, and more. To learn more, contact us today.