It is estimated that 36 million Americans have a hearing impairment and some form of hearing loss affects every one in three adults over the age of 65. Sometimes, a hearing impairment develops so gradually that many are not even aware of a problem until it has advanced beyond an easily treatable stage. This could be avoided if we treated our hearing with the same care and attention we give to our eyes and physical health: with regular, routine exams. Early detection increases the odds of successful treatment.
Hearing loss has a negative impact on the cognitive areas of the brain where we recognize and process sound. A 2011 study conducted by Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the National Institute on Aging found that seniors with a hearing loss are more likely to develop dementia than those who retain their hearing.
For participants aged 60 and older, more than one-third (36.4 percent) were found to be at risk for dementia – and all had an associated hearing loss. Individuals with a mild hearing impairment – such as difficulty following a conversation in a restaurant – were nearly twice as likely as someone with normal hearing to develop dementia. The study also revealed that 94 percent of those diagnosed with memory loss were also found to have untreated hearing loss.
Social withdrawal, depression and confusion are all common in individuals with untreated hearing loss. Without proper treatment, many people will experience the debilitating social and emotional effects of a hearing impairment as their world slowly closes in around them. As conversations become more difficult and social situations begin to resemble a cacophony of noise, the individual feels awkward and confused and isolated. Interaction with others, even spouses, becomes more troublesome and less enjoyable.
Pretty soon, an evening out – restaurant, show and time with friends – is difficult at best. The TV has gone from being a source of entertainment to a source of frustration.
Where do you start? A hearing impairment is a medical condition and should be treated as such. If you suspect that you or a loved one has a hearing impairment, the first place to start is with a complete hearing evaluation by an audiologist. An audiologist has been specifically trained to evaluate your hearing, diagnose your condition and recommend the proper course of treatment.
This is an extremely important first step because you need to know the cause of your hearing impairment before you can properly treat it. In addition, it allows for early diagnosis and treatment of any underlying medical conditions that could manifest into other health issues.
Remember, not all hearing loss is treatable with hearing aids or hearing aids alone. Some forms of hearing loss may be surgically treated or treated with medications. Ideally, an audiologist working with an ear, nose & throat physician will be able to properly evaluate, diagnose and treat your condition with the best chance of success. We at Central Oregon ENT have a staff of physicians, audiologists and hearing instrument specialists to meet all of your hearing care needs.Central Oregon Ear Nose & Throat
2450 NE Mary Rose Place, Suite 120
541-382-3100
