Myths And Facts About Hearing Loss And Hearing Aids

Hearing loss is a common condition affecting millions globally. Despite its many challenges, technological advancements have made hearing aids a viable solution for most people. Unfortunately, hearing aids and hearing loss issues are shrouded with many myths and misinformation, preventing people from seeking the help they need. This article will address these myths and separate them from the facts you need to know about hearing loss and hearing aids.

Only Elderly People Experience Hearing Loss

While hearing loss is a natural degenerative process for many aging adults, this condition is not limited to the aging population. Anybody can experience hearing loss, whether partially or totally. Facts from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that around 466 million people globally have hearing loss, and about one-third of that number are over 65. Hearing loss can occur at any age, as several factors are responsible for this condition.

For example, adults may experience hearing loss due to hereditary factors, certain medications, accidents and exposure to deafening noise. And, speaking of loud noise, here is another myth worth mentioning.

Only People with a History of Noise Exposure Experience Hearing Loss Later in Life

While loud noise is one of the common causes of hearing loss, there are many other causes, as mentioned previously. In fact, according to WHO, approximately 34-million children worldwide have hearing loss. And most of them have no history of exposure to deafening noise.

Hearing Aids Will Restore Your Hearing to Normal

Although hearing aids can improve your hearing, they cannot restore your hearing to normal or completely heal your hearing issues. Hearing aids are only designed to improve your ability to process sound. These devices are part of a broader hearing rehabilitation process your audiologist will help you through.

You’ll Always Know If You Have Hearing Loss

Hearing loss generally develops so gradually and progresses so slowly that many people fail to detect it until it becomes too late. You may have the usual signs of asking people to repeat themselves when talking to you, but it may take a while to realize what you’re experiencing. That’s why visiting an audiologist is important to examine your hearing.

Hearing Loss is Not a Problem

Hearing loss, whether total or partial, is a problem, especially when you don’t know the cause. It can interfere with almost every part of your life, making it difficult to enjoy your regular activities, communicate with loved ones, do well in school and be productive at work. Hearing loss can also cause you to lose independence and a sense of security.

Hearing Loss Issues Resolve on Their Own

Temporary hearing loss can often resolve independently without any treatment. However, other hearing loss types only worsen gradually without immediate intervention. Regardless of the cause of your hearing loss, it’s important to see an audiologist to determine the underlying causes and identify the right treatment.

Hearing Aids Will Damage Your Hearing

Hearing aids will not damage your hearing if fitted properly by an experienced audiologist. You will also have nothing to worry about if you maintain your hearing aids as directed and visit your audiologist frequently for reviews.

Hearing Aids Make You Look Older

It’s common to see older people with old-fashioned and cumbersome hearing devices. Unfortunately, this has created the wrong idea that wearing hearing aids makes you look old. Today’s hearing aids are sleeker in design and are small enough to be discrete. You can wear them inside your ear canals and completely hide them from view.

You Don’t Need Hearing Aids Because You Only Have Mild, Temporary Hearing Loss

Regardless of how you feel about your hearing loss, only a thorough assessment from an audiologist can help you determine whether or not you can benefit from a hearing aid device. It’s always important to examine your hearing if you’re experiencing hearing loss.

Any Hearing Aid Device Can Work for You

Hearing aids only work as part of broader hearing rehabilitation; using them alone may not improve your hearing. Your best option is to work with an audiologist to assess your hearing first and then determine whether you should buy a hearing aid. Even then, your audiologist will help you determine which device is best for your condition, as there are many hearing aids available to choose from.

If you have any questions about hearing and hearing aids, it’s best to speak with experts like Gavin Audiology and Hearing Aids. To learn more about Gavin Audiology and Hearing Aids, contact us today at -631-8777.