Did you know that hearing loss is the third most common health condition in the United States? It’s true! In fact, nearly 48 million Americans have some form of hearing loss. This number is only going to continue to grow as our population ages. If you are one of the millions of people diagnosed with hearing loss, you may have encountered some myths about this condition. Let’s take a look at four of the most common fallacies and dispel them once and for all!
Hearing Loss is Just a Part of Aging
This is one of the most common myths about hearing loss. While it is true that age does play a factor in hearing loss, there are many other causes as well. Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is the slow deterioration of hearing that occurs as we get older. However, this type of hearing loss can often be mitigated with the use of hearing aids or other assistive devices. There are also many other causes of hearing loss, including exposure to loud noise, head trauma, certain medications, and illnesses.
In addition, hearing loss is not just something that affects older adults. It is estimated that nearly two million children in the United States have some form of hearing loss, many of whom could benefit from hearing aids or other interventions. If you are concerned about hearing loss, the best thing to do is to see an audiologist for a hearing test. They can determine the cause of your hearing loss and recommend the best course of treatment.
Hearing Loss is Not a Big Deal
Hearing loss can have a significant impact on your life. Hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression, and even cognitive decline if left untreated. Untreated hearing loss has also been linked to an increased risk of falls and accidents. If you are experiencing hearing loss, it is important to visit an audiologist to get a comprehensive hearing evaluation.
The good news is that many treatment options are available for hearing loss, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive listening devices. With the help of an experienced audiologist, you can find the best solution for your individual needs. In addition, there are many hearing loss support groups and organizations that can provide you with information and resources.
Hearing Aid Pricing
Hearing aids can vary in price, depending on the type and style of hearing aid you choose. However, there are many affordable options available, and your audiologist will work with you to establish an appropriate budget. In addition, many financing options exist to make hearing aids more accessible. Visit your local hearing center to learn more about the different types of hearing aids and payment options that are available.
Hearing loss is a common condition that can have a profound impact on your life if left untreated. However, with the help of an experienced audiologist, you can find the best solution for your needs. Don’t let myths about hearing loss keep you from getting the help you need!
Hearing Aids Don’t Work
While it’s true hearing aids don’t “restore” lost hearing, they absolutely work and help you to hear better in your daily surroundings. There are different styles of hearing aids available, including in the ear (ITE), behind the ear (BTE), completely in canal (CIC), invisible in canal (IIC) and in the canal (ITC). These all have their own unique benefits that can be discussed with an audiologist to decide which one is best for you.
The professional will take into account your degree of hearing loss, lifestyle and aesthetic preferences when helping you pick the beset style. Once you have made your decision, your hearing aids will be programmed to your exact specifications, allowing you to enjoy the small sounds you’ve been missing out on – like the birds chirping or a stream flowing!
In addition to being customized for your exact needs, you will also be able to equip your hearing aids with different features that will improve your wearing experience. Some of the most common features they can be equipped with include: Bluetooth, directional microphones, multisettings, feedback reduction and remote settings.
If you are ready to push these myths aside and seek treatment for hearing loss, consider scheduling an appointment with an audiologist to have an evaluation performed. Based on your results, the audiologist will be able to recommend the best solution for your specific condition.
To learn more about your options, contact the team at Hear Here Audiology by calling 727-289-1212.
