What is Hearing Loss?
Many people may think hearing loss is the complete absence of sound. However, those with a hearing impairment can hear, they often just lack clarity. If you are one of the 48 million Americans with hearing loss, you are not alone. As we age, it is common for the hair cells inside the inner ear – responsible for hearing – to disintegrate. This results in sensorineural hearing loss and can make it difficult to understand words in background noise or to hear high pitched sounds.
If you have noticed a decline in your hearing ability, contact us today! We would be happy to discuss your options and help you get back to living your life to the fullest.
Signs of Hearing Loss
The most common type of hearing loss is sensorineural, which occurs gradually over the course of a few years. For this reason, it may be difficult to notice a change in your hearing ability until it’s too late. A key indicator is usually a close friend, spouse, or family member encouraging you to have your hearing checked.
Some common signs of hearing loss you should be aware of are:
- It seems like the people around you mumble
- You can hear but you lack clarity
- It’s difficult to follow the conversation when there are more than two speakers
- You need the volume on the TV or radio turned up louder than others like
- You feel tired after conversations
- You frequently ask others to repeat themselves
- You hear a ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
- Women and children’s voices are harder to hear
Importance of Good Hearing
Hearing health is a crucial part of having good overall health. We may take our ability to hear for granted sometimes. But for those with hearing loss, quality of life can decrease when you can’t hear voices the way you used to.
Hearing is deeply connected to brain health. When left untreated, hearing loss can make it difficult for the brain to receive certain sound signals which are necessary to keep it active and healthy. Over time, this can lead to forgetfulness, listening fatigue, and even cognitive decline.
Hearing aids are a great management tool as they can provide your brain with the proper stimulation to stay active. Don’t let hearing loss affect your well-being, contact Robby Young’s Hearing Aid Center today!