Hearing loss can affect other aspects of your health if left untreated. To prevent hearing loss affecting your health, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately after you realise that you are experiencing hearing loss.
Ways Untreated Hearing Loss Affects Other Aspects of Your Health
1. Falls
Ears play a significant role in our balance. Suppose your inner ear is affected by an infection that causes your hearing loss, the condition will also affect the part of the inner ear that is responsible for balance. This will increase the chance of you falling due to a lack of balance. Unfortunately, you cannot predict when, how or where the fall will happen. Some falls are so severe that they lead to broken bones. Therefore, if you are experiencing hearing loss, visit an audiologist.
2. Depression
After a while, hearing loss begins to take a toll on your mental health. People with hearing loss may experience poorer quality of life, isolation and reduced social activities. Also, there is a stigma associated with hearing loss. This would lead to depression too. Therefore, if you or someone you know is experiencing hearing loss, ensure you seek support. You can search for hearing loss support groups in your area or online.
3. Dementia
There is a relationship between dementia and hearing loss. Individuals who experience mild hearing loss are nearly twice as likely to have dementia than those with normal hearing. The danger rises three-fold for those with moderate hearing loss and five-fold for those with severe impairment. Hearing loss accelerates brain function decline.
4. Heart health
Hearing loss is linked to heart health. Some studies say that the inner ear is so sensitive to blood flow that deformities in the heart system could be noted here earlier than in other less sensitive parts of the body.
When someone is diagnosed with hearing loss, the majority of the time, hearing aids are recommended. Hearing aids will help improve the quality of life and prevent other health issues. Therefore, if you think you have hearing loss, it’s best to get your hearing tested. At Attune, we offer comprehensive hearing tests. You can visit our website or contact us to book an appointment.
