When hearing loss is left untreated, studies have found it can lead to irritability, anger, negativity, tiredness, tension, depression and stress. It can lead to further problems and can have many psychological implications, including feelings of shame and low self-esteem. In addition to this, there can be a physical impact of hearing loss including headaches, increased blood pressure, stress and tense muscles.
However, hearing loss isn’t something to feel ashamed about and it shouldn’t lend itself to having a negative self-image or feelings. In fact, hearing loss is becoming increasingly common – it was found in 2015 that more than 11 million people across the UK experience some kind of hearing loss. This is one in six within the population. It is predicted that by 2035, this number will rise to 15.6 million, which will mean one in five people have hearing loss. If you are experiencing difficulties with your hearing, you really aren’t alone.
It is also becoming far less debilitating in everyday life. For starters, more than 24,000 people across the country now use sign language as their main language. Additionally, around 6.7 million people are able to benefit from hearing aids.
With the many advances in technology, there are now many ways of dealing with hearing loss, from hearing aids to wax removal, tinnitus treatment to custom-made ear plugs and assistive listening devices. It is far more common than ever before for people to wear hearing aids, and it is certainly not something to feel ashamed of or concerned about.
There is, of course, a physical and social impact from hearing loss. It can make it hard to be in situations where lots of people are talking, or where there is loud background noise. It can also be difficult to chat with people over the phone or from afar, and it can make it challenging to continue life in the same way as you had once known. This can feel frustrating, isolating and embarrassing, but it shouldn’t mean you aren’t able to lead a normal life.
Being able to follow a conversation with your family and friends in a noisy setting, thanks to wearing a hearing or assistive listening device, should far outweigh any feelings of isolation that will surround your hearing loss. You will be able to continue your normal relationships, and won’t have to turn down invitations.
Similarly, being able to listen to things you find enjoyable and pleasurable, such as the radio or television, should far outweigh any concerns you might have about wearing hearing instruments. These devices are often small and hard to notice, and typically people won’t realise you are wearing one unless you make a point of mentioning it.
We want to find you the right solution for your hearing difficulties at angli-EAR Hearing, so get in touch with us today to find out all the ways we can help.
