Hearing loss effects are far-reaching, perhaps more than some people realize. Hearing loss doesn’t just make it difficult to hold a conversation; it changes how a person experienced the world.
Not all hearing loss effects are apparent. For example, studies show that the parts of brains dedicated to hearing in people with impaired loss can change to focus on other functions. Brain function dedicated to different functions can become stronger and take over the hearing part of the brain as it attempts to compensate for the loss of hearing.
However, as the brain attempts to compensate, the areas dedicated to higher thinking can become unable to perform primary functions. This can explain some of the difficulties associated with loss of hearing.
If you suspect you or your child has impaired hearing or want to discuss treatment options, contact a Beltone DFW specialist.
Children who have impaired hearing can struggle with learning. Language skills, especially those related to abstract words, may prove difficult for a child who has a loss of hearing. Children with impaired hearing may also struggle to understand a word with multiple meanings or when using complex sentences. A conversation may be impaired due to a person’s limited ability to understand word endings.
They may also find it difficult to build self-esteem because they fail to create communication skills. These very skills are required to have a fulfilling career or to seek educational opportunities. This is why it’s important to detect loss of hearing as young as possible and to work with hearing care specialists to identify the cause or provide a child with tools such as hearing aids that enable them to communicate with others and grow those crucial skills.
Untreated reductions in hearing can reduce a person’s quality of life. Hearing loss is known to cause headaches and muscle tension while increasing a person’s stress and blood pressure. Conditions such as depression, fatigue, poor memory, and social withdrawal can also accompany impaired hearing.
Furthermore, because so many relationships depend on communication, they may suffer. People with impaired hearing and their loved ones may experience frustration, resentment, and loneliness, among other feelings. However, some of these issues can be relieved with the use of hearing aids and other tools.