It is critical to recognize that hearing loss is not merely a condition that influences one’s ability to perceive sounds, but a significant medical concern that can have far-reaching impacts on your overall health
As a Doctor of Audiology, I cannot stress enough the importance of addressing hearing loss as a true medical issue. A patient’s physical health can influence their auditory system and, vice versa, untreated issues with hearing can also negatively impact a patient’s physical health. Despite this knowledge, hearing assessments are often omitted from patients’ annual health evaluations.
Medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, as well as various cardiovascular conditions, can have an impact on a patient’s hearing abilities. Additionally, there are many conditions of the inner or middle ear which contribute to hearing loss, balance issues, and tinnitus. For example, Meniere’s Disease, Otosclerosis, and even wax in the ear canal. These medical conditions can affect a patient’s hearing by interfering with the transmission of sound to the brain or affecting blood flow to the inner ear.
In addition to the health factors affecting hearing, untreated hearing loss can also affect a patient’s physical health. Accumulating evidence suggests a link between hearing impairment and numerous other health conditions including cognitive decline, depression, and an increased risk of falls. Thus, it is common for individuals with unaddressed hearing loss to experience a diminished quality of life. Early intervention of hearing loss plays a major role in preserving our cognitive abilities and overall quality of life.
Due to these medical correlations, it is imperative to seek help from a Doctor of Audiology that is trained in the medical aspects of diagnosing and treating hearing loss. Their expert knowledge combined with the utilization of state-of-the-art diagnostic tools enables them to evaluate the comprehensive spectrum of auditory impairments and recommend tailored treatments accordingly. At Expert Hearing, we have cutting-edge diagnostic tools and treatment options to suit all our patient’s individual needs including testing how a patient processes speech in noise.
My goal as a Doctor of Audiology is to ensure a patient’s overall well-being, recognizing the key role that optimal hearing plays in it. I must reiterate again – it is imperative to incorporate hearing evaluations into your annual health checkups.
Maintaining a regular schedule of visits to a Doctor of Audiology, timely treatment of hearing loss, and management of associated health conditions can significantly contribute to overall longevity and vitality; ultimately helping you maintain an active healthy lifestyle. Call Expert Hearing today to schedule your annual audiological evaluation.
