5 Common Hearing Loss Myths

Did you know that one in five Americans experience hearing loss? That's a lot of people! And unfortunately, many of them don't even know it. Because hearing loss is so common, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about it. This blog post will debunk five of the most common hearing loss myths. Stay tuned – you'll be an expert in hearing loss after we dispel these myths!

1. Hearing loss is just a part of aging.

Wrong! While it's true that hearing loss is more common as we age, it is not inevitable. You can do many things to prevent hearing loss or slow down the process. For example, you can avoid loud noise exposure, quit smoking, and eat a healthy diet.

Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually happens gradually and affects both ears equally. But it can also happen suddenly after exposure to loud noise or an ear infection. And it's not just older adults who experience hearing loss – one in eight children in the United States has some degree of hearing loss. So, if your child seems to be having trouble hearing, don't wait – get them to a doctor or audiologist immediately.

There are many different causes of hearing loss, but age is not necessarily one of them. So, if you think you might be experiencing hearing loss, don't write it off as a normal part of aging – get it checked out by a professional.

2. I don't need to worry about hearing loss – it's not that big of a deal.

Hearing loss is a huge deal! It can have a profound impact on your life. Hearing loss can make communicating with others challenging and lead to social isolation. It can also cause depression and anxiety and has been linked to dementia. Luckily, with proper and prompt treatment, these associated risks remain small.

Untreated hearing loss can also cause problems at work. People with untreated hearing loss are more likely to miss work days and are less productive at work. If you think your job might be putting you at risk for hearing loss, talk to your employer about it. They might be able to provide you with hearing protection or make other accommodations.

Don't wait to get help for hearing loss – it can severely impact your life. If you think you might be experiencing hearing loss, talk to an audiologist today.

3. There's not much I can do about hearing loss.

Wrong! You can do many things to prevent hearing loss or slow down the process. For example, you can avoid loud noise exposure, quit smoking, and eat a healthy diet.

If you think you might be experiencing hearing loss, don't wait – get it checked out by a professional. There are many different causes of hearing loss, but hearing aids have been proven to be incredibly helpful in rehabilitation. Because of how varying hearing loss is, there are a number of different options to consider, including in the ear (ITE), behind the ear (BTE), in the canal (ITC), completely in canal (CIC) and invisible in canal (IIC). 

4. Hearing aids are too expensive and don't work that well anyway.

Hearing aids have come a long way in recent years and are now more affordable and effective than ever. In fact, most insurance plans cover the cost of hearing aids. And if you're worried about how well they work, don't be – modern hearing aids are very effective at improving hearing.

If you think you might need a hearing aid, talk to your audiologist. They will be able to help you find the suitable device for your needs and will make sure it fits properly. There are numerous features available as well – allowing you to customise your device to your personal needs and preferences.

5. My hearing loss isn't that bad – I don't need to see an audiologist.

Hearing loss is often gradual, so it can be hard to tell when you first start losing your hearing. And many people wait too long to get help for their hearing loss. But the sooner you get treatment, the better. So, if you think you might be experiencing hearing loss, don't wait – get it checked out by a professional right away.

There are many different causes of hearing loss but many different treatments. If you think you might have hearing loss, don't wait – get help today. Don't let hearing loss take over your life – get the help from Niagara Hearing and Speech Clinic by calling us at (855) 797-8002. We have a team of professionals ready to help you on your journey to better hearing.