The ability to hear is often taken for granted. However, hearing enables individuals to engage in the world around us. Hearing provides comfort to infants listening to their mother’s lullabies. It provides protection when alarms sound, warning of us fires. Furthermore, hearing enables individuals to learn through communication.

Whom does hearing loss impact?

Those who are not born with hearing loss — which affects about two to three out of every 1,000 infants born in the U.S. — might not realize how lucky they are to be able to hear; the way in which we engage in the world of noise and sound often indicates this to be the truth. We listen to music too loud (either through headphones or at concerts), fail to wear proper protection at work, during fun activities or while performing simple chores like mowing the lawn.

What causes hearing loss?

We ought to “listen up” however; damage to the inner ear from loud noises or sounds, aging, exposure to medication that can harm our ears (called ototoxic medications) and other medical conditions can reduce our ability to hear. Sometimes this happens slowly over time as we age, but other times, hearing loss can come up rapidly.

Hearing loss isn’t always related to age. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 30 million Americans have hearing loss. The better hearing Institute estimates at least 1.4 million of those reports are school-aged children. Holding onto common misconceptions about hearing loss and subsequent treatment can actually harm one’s ability to hear and maintain proper ear health, which can ultimately lead to other conditions like depression, mental fatigue, social isolation and, especially in children, developmental delays. 

Misconceptions about hearing loss

Here are some common misconceptions believed by many Americans about hearing loss.

  1. “My type of hearing loss can’t be treated.” Audiologists are trained professionals who are able to diagnose and treat many types and degrees of hearing loss. If your hearing loss is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, otolaryngologists – doctors who perform surgical interventions in the head and neck area – can help provide a solution.
  2. “Hearing aids are for old people.” As mentioned before, hearing loss is becoming more common in younger generations. People will likely be less noticing of a hearing aid  – especially with today’s inconspicuous designs – than of your asking them to repeat what they said.
  3. “Hearing aids will make me hear perfect again.” Unfortunately, hearing aids do not restore hearing, but they do aid in one’s ability to hear more effectively. 

Talking to your hearing care provider

The best way to maintain your hearing health is to not always believe what you hear about hearing loss and hearing aids. It is important to take your own health into your hands and visit and audiologist or other hearing healthcare professional if you believe you are experiencing hearing loss.