When people think about hearing loss, they often think of an older person, but hearing loss can affect people of all ages. If left untreated, it can cause several surprising consequences, so it is important to get your hearing regularly tested.
1. Cognitive Decline
Your brain is constantly picking up on sounds, even if you are not aware of them. Faint noises like air coming through a vent are filtered out by the brain. Similarly, the brain filters sound so that you can understand the difference between the siren of an ambulance passing by and the music playing on your radio. When you have hearing loss, the brain does not get the same quality of sound and struggles to pick up on sounds that are not there. This puts stress on the brain that can increase your risk of dementia later in life by at least 200%.
2. Stomach Problems
Your body is an interconnected system and when your brain experiences stress, this emotional reaction can have a physical effect. Hearing loss can lead to an upset stomach, muscle tension, and anxiety which translates to diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramps. If these problems persist, more serious conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can develop.
3. Mental Health Problems
The difficulty of communicating with other people when you are hard of hearing can cause depression and stress. A study from 2014 found this correlation between loss of hearing and an increase in depression in adults under 70 years old. Other mental health conditions that can develop from years of untreated hearing loss are social withdrawal, irritability, anger, lack of focus, and a pessimistic attitude.
4. Relationship Problems
A survey from 2007 found that 35% of people with hearing loss had trouble maintaining personal relationships. That’s because you may feel you hearing-impaired partner isn’t listening to you, which is frustrating for both sides who may not recognize your hearing impairment yet.
Start Treatment Now
Hearing loss can be detrimental to your quality of life and has a significant impact on both your physical and emotional health. However, you can improve your hearing with the affordable H.E.A.R. Method Treatment Program, offered by the expert team at the Hearing Doctors of New Jersey.
Get a Fresh Start
If you’re looking to improve your hearing and get a fresh start in your life, contact the Hearing Doctors of New Jersey to schedule a consultation today.
To learn more about hearing loss and hearing aids, download our FREE Insider’s Guide on how to finally hear better.
