Listen to your ears. They might be telling you something
If you’re experiencing hearing loss, you need to pay attention to your whole health. The more we learn about hearing loss, the more we discover that it frequently coexists with other health conditions. So pay attention to your entire well-being. Here are some things you’ll want to know.
HEART AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
A growing body of research shows that a person’s hearing and cardiovascular health frequently correspond. It’s a good idea for people with cardiovascular disease to get their hearing checked, and for people with hearing loss to pay close attention to their cardiovascular health.
DIABETES
Hearing loss is about twice as common in adults with diabetes. If you have diabetes, be sure to get your hearing checked as part of your routine care.
COGNITIVE FUNCTION, DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Studies show that older people with hearing loss are more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. Research also shows that hearing loss among older adults appears to be associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline than in people without hearing loss. So what’s the take away? Get your hearing tested and address any hearing loss.
DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY
Research shows that hearing loss frequently coexists with depression and/ or anxiety. In fact, people with untreated hearing loss may be at an increased risk of depression. When left unaddressed, hearing loss can lead to isolation and other emotional conditions that can affect both qualify of life and mental health. But we also know that by treating hearing loss, the risk of associated depression and other mental health issues lessens significantly. So go ahead. Be happy. Get your hearing tested.
CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE
Some research has shown that people with moderate chronic kidney disease have a higher prevalence of hearing loss than those without the disease. While we await more research in this area, it may make sense for people with chronic kidney disease to have their hearing checked as part of their routine care.