Deaf Awareness Week highlighted how common hearing loss is with some startling statistics, with approximately one in six people having hearing loss! But unfortunately, a real stigma still seems to be associated with hearing loss — and wearing hearing aids.
Do you associate hearing loss signs and hearing aids with ageing? If you do, you’re far from alone and unfortunately, many people frequently battle hearing loss before recognising how much it can affect their life. What we would love is for you to share this post and help us break the silence about hearing loss and encourage anyone who is struggling to get a hearing test with #hearingloss
If you think wearing hearing aids will affect how people see you, we get it, and we believe this perception has no place in an inclusive society. Here at Regain Hearing, we know hearing loss is a common issue affecting many people, and we know first-hand how often people feel embarrassed about their hearing loss or the thought of wearing hearing aids.
In this article, we will explore the stigma surrounding hearing loss and hearing aids and the impact this may have. We will also discuss ways to break down these barriers and encourage more people to seek help for hearing loss.
Why You Should Never Ignore Hearing Loss Signs
If your eyesight is getting worse and you’re struggling, you will probably head to your local optician for a sight test without hesitation. There used to be a stigma with wearing glasses, but thankfully this has disappeared and now getting a sight test is no longer a big deal! Wearing glasses has even become so trendy you can buy frames with clear glass if you don’t need glasses to improve your sight!
So why do people continue to feel embarrassed to admit they need a hearing test or avoid seeking hearing loss treatment when they notice early signs of hearing loss? Did you know that a hearing test can do more than just detect hearing loss? It can even save your life.
One condition that can a hearing test can reveal is an acoustic neuroma, a non-cancerous tumour that grows on the nerve connecting the ear to the brain. Acoustic neuromas are rare, but they can occur in anyone, regardless of age or gender, and when left untreated, they put pressure on the brain and can even be life-threatening.
Thankfully, during a hearing test, an audiologist will check the function of the acoustic nerve, which can reveal any abnormalities that may be a sign of an acoustic neuroma. This is why it’s so important to have regular hearing tests, especially if you are experiencing any hearing loss or other symptoms such as tinnitus or dizziness.
Hearing Loss Treatment and Hearing Aids
The benefits of using hearing aids, even if you only have mild hearing loss, are numerous and can greatly improve your quality of life. Using hearing aids and taking control of your hearing health can significantly impact your life and overall well-being.
Clear hearing can greatly improve communication skills. When you struggle to hear and understand conversations, you may misinterpret the meaning or context of what is said. Hearing aids can help make social interactions and conversations much easier and more enjoyable. And improved hearing could even enhance your performance at work!
Take Action on Hearing Loss Today!
So, if you are having trouble hearing, do not allow the stigma associated with hearing aids to prevent you from finding an audiologist for hearing loss treatment. You can optimise your ability to interact with others, increase your productivity at work, and generally enhance your general standard of life by getting a hearing test and using hearing aids.
Taking charge of your hearing loss is an act of confidence, so why not book your next hearing test at one of our Regain Hearing clinics in London, Kent, and Essex?
Our experienced audiologists offer the most advanced hearing tests and a range of hearing aids to choose from, plus lifetime aftercare is included. Give us a call or fill out our form to book today!
