Under­stand­ing Hear­ing Loss: Con­se­quences with Dr. Cal­li Yancey, Audi­ol­o­gist at Onslow ENT

According to the National Institute of Health, 1 in 8 people age 12 and older in the United States have hearing loss. While often associated with aging, hearing loss can impact individuals of all ages and can result from a variety of factors, including noise exposure, medical conditions, infections, genetics, and trauma.

Hearing loss is a partial or total inability to hear sounds in one or both ears. The causes of hearing loss can be diverse and range from temporary to permanent, depending on the underlying issue.

Hearing loss, if left untreated, can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s quality of life. The consequences go beyond simply not being able to hear; they can affect emotional, social, and cognitive well-being, as well as increased risk of dementia, as hearing loss can lead to social isolation.

Hearing loss can range from mild to profound. Research conducted at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health has revealed the following associations with dementia risk:

- Mild hearing loss doubles the risk of developing dementia.

- Moderate hearing loss triples this risk.

- Severe hearing loss increases the likelihood of developing dementia by five times.

If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing difficulties, it’s essential to consult an ENT specialist or audiologist. A thorough evaluation of the ear and auditory system, including a hearing test, will help determine the type and degree of hearing loss.

Hearing loss can be a life-altering condition, but with the right treatment, it is possible to manage or even reverse its effects. Call the experts at Onslow ENT today to schedule your appointment at 910-219-3377.