Most health organizations have been trying to create more awareness on women health. So far, the health campaigns have succeeded in improving the overall access to healthcare services. However, women’s hearing health is an important health issue that has been left out in most health campaigns.
The health effects of hearing loss
Most women become aware of a hearing problem in its early stages. In some cases, however, the affected women ignore the issue hoping that they can cope with it without any medical help.
Various studies have established that hearing loss has a negative impact on the overall health if it is left untreated. Some of the typical health effects include;
- Social hindrance
- Psychological trauma
- Cognitive effects due to reduced alertness
- Isolation from friends and colleagues
- Distorted communication
- Low-quality life due to stress and depression while trying to cope with their hearing issues
- Poor job performance
- Reduced personal safety resulting from reduced alertness
- In young children, hearing loss can affect speech development.
Benefits of treating hear loss
Medical professionals advise women who are experiencing a hearing loss to seek medical intervention as soon as possible. Early treatment helps to improve the quality of life and minimize adverse health effects associated with hearing loss.
Early treatment helps in;
- Improved relationships between relatives, friends, and workmates
- Improvement of self-esteem
- Improved health
- Improved communication
The benefits are crucial in maintaining a good social life thereby eliminating stressors like loneliness and rejection that have an enormous impact on one’s overall health.
Who can be affected by hearing loss?
Anybody, at any age, can be affected by hearing loss. Men, however, have a higher risk of hearing loss compared to women.
Causes of hearing loss
Hearing loss is linked to numerous causes. Some of the most common causes include;
- Loud noise
- Infections
- Allergies
- Head trauma
- Family inheritance
- Old age
- Tumors
Treatment of hearing loss
Just like any other medical condition, hearing loss is a manageable health issue. In case a hearing loss occurred due to ear wax accumulation the doctor will clean it up.
Moreover, if the condition results from an infection, drugs will be used. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to fix problems that are caused by hearing bones, tumors, or fluid accumulation. If your hearing problem is permanent, hearing aids will be used.
Hearing Aids
A hearing aid is an electronic device that has a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker that are aimed to improve sound clarity in the ears. Due to advanced technologies, hearing aids are designed to efficiently and conveniently fit inside the ears.
Management of women hearing health
Hearing loss can be minimized by taking proper care of your ears. Here is a guideline to maintaining a good hearing health.
- Maintaining your cardiovascular health
In the ears, little blood flow can affect the functionality of the cochlea. The cochlea transmits sound signals to the brain. It may be damaged if it lacks oxygen and nutrients needed for normal functioning.
- Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes places one at a high risk of developing a cardiovascular disease or stroke, medical conditions associated with hearing impairment. Surveys have established that people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop a hearing loss as those without diabetes. Doctors have linked high blood glucose to damages that occur in blood vessels that supply the cochlea.
- Eating a healthy diet
Healthy eating is crucial for a healthy life. A balanced diet provides essential vitamins, nutrients, and energy that is vital for the body’s functionality.
- Avoiding smoking
Tobacco use has been associated with an increased risk of developing a hearing problem. Smoking affects smokers as well as those exposed to the cigarette smoke.
- Avoiding exposure to loud sound
Loud noise is more harmful to young children compared to adults. Loud music can damage the cochlea.
If you keep asking people to repeat what they are saying or can hardly hear the noise in your background, you should have your ears checked. If you suspect that you have lost your hearing, have a specialist assess the situation. Audiology Island is among the top audiology service providers that you can always turn to whenever you need a hearing loss solution.
About Dr Zhanneta Shapiro
Dr Zhanneta Shapiro received her Masters of Science from Brooklyn College in 2005 and completed her Doctorate of Audiology from Florida University in May 2008. Her graduate training was in various hospitals in the tri-state area and a residency period completed at Ear Nose and Throat Associates of New York. [ Learn More ]
