Kingston-based audiologist Farah Kiani, owner of The Hearing Services Kingston, offers advice on the seven myths about hearing loss unpicked by Rest Less and The Hearing Care Partnership.  

Hearing loss is a condition affecting over 18 million UK adults. Misunderstandings about symptoms, causes, and hearing aids often delay treatment, and research proves that early diagnosis of hearing loss is vital for maintaining hearing and overall health. 

The seven myths are: 

Myth one – It is easy to tell if you have hearing loss

It is often quite apparent when another person is experiencing hearing loss.

However, recognising our own hearing issues is not always as straightforward.

Research indicates that individuals with hearing impairment generally delay seeking assistance for an average of seven to ten years.

One reason for this delay is the gradual nature of hearing loss development, which can result in subtle symptoms.

For instance, you may notice that you frequently ask others to repeat themselves, find group conversations challenging, and require a higher television volume than those around you.

The key lies in understanding the signs to watch for, as the side effects of hearing loss are often easier to identify than the hearing loss itself.

These effects include:

• Fatigue: Your brain works harder to comprehend what people are saying, which can lead to fatigue. You might observe that decreased energy levels make it difficult to perform your usual activities.

• Cognitive Decline: Research has linked untreated hearing loss to faster cognitive decline. Early signs include memory lapses, difficulty with problem- solving, and struggling to find the right words.

• Social Isolation: It's not uncommon for individuals with hearing loss to avoid social events due to difficulties with hearing and interacting with others.

Myth Two—You will not be able to hear most sounds if you have hearing loss

One might expect hearing loss to affect the ability to hear all sounds. However, experiencing hearing loss doesn't necessarily mean complete deafness, and individuals typically do not notice hearing issues in every situation.

Instead, there may be a reduced capacity to hear certain sounds, particularly those of higher pitches.

Research has shown that, high-frequency hearing is often the first to be affected. This typically impacts the ability to detect soft sounds, such as speech, especially in environments with significant background noise.

This condition generally manifests as a loss of clarity rather than volume. For example, you may hear doors slamming at a distance but struggle to understand conversations.

Myth Three—Hearing aids make your ears lazy

Many assume that hearing aids make ears lazy and inhibit their improvement or functionality without assistance. On the contrary, hearing aids actually support brain function, and research shows that the earlier they are fitted, the more likely hearing will be preserved.

Untreated hearing loss can result in auditory deprivation, where the brain loses its ability to interpret sounds due to prolonged lack of stimulation.

Hearing aids regularly stimulate the auditory cortex, helping preserve hearing, enhancing the brain's processing ability, and preventing or reversing auditory deprivation.

If advice is needed regarding hearing aids and whether they are suitable, booking a hearing assessment is recommended.

The Hearing Services Kingston offers a range of top-quality hearing aid brands specifically tailored to individual needs.

Myth Four—It is better to leave wearing hearing aids until your hearing is worse

Some individuals believe hearing aids are only necessary for those with severe hearing loss. However, this is another myth, and potentially a harmful one.

Delaying treatment for hearing loss can lead to further hearing damage and impact long-term health.

Besides increasing the risk of auditory deprivation, research associates untreated hearing loss with other health conditions and concerns.

Examples include musical ear syndrome, in which you hear sounds that aren't present as the brain attempts to 'fill in the gaps' caused by hearing loss.

Similarly, studies have linked hearing loss to increased isolation and loneliness, as people often avoid social interactions when they become more challenging.

Beyond impacting quality of life, social isolation is associated with higher risks of various health conditions, including stroke, heart disease, anxiety, depression, and general cognitive decline.

Research asserts that hearing aids can improve quality of life, even for individuals with mild hearing loss.

A British and Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers study, for instance, found that 95% of UK respondents reported enhanced social lives, confidence, independence, and personal and professional relationships since using hearing aids.

Some individuals are discouraged from obtaining hearing aids due to their association with older adults. However, hearing loss does not discriminate, and some individuals have used hearing aids since infancy.

Myth Five—Hearing loss only affects much older adults

Contrary to popular belief, hearing loss is not an issue exclusive to older adults.

While it is true that hearing loss may become more common and severe with age, people of all ages can be impacted.

Research suggests that hearing sensitivity to high-frequency sounds may begin to diminish as early as in one's twenties, a phenomenon known as presbycusis.

Studies have revealed a concerning rise in young individuals experiencing hearing loss, potentially influenced by frequent exposure to loud noises, such as high-volume headphone use.

The Hearing Services Kingston has various hearing aid brands (Credit: Tilly O'Brien)

Consequently, experts believe many younger people may experience hearing loss without realising it.

Genetics, specific medications, and health conditions can also contribute to hearing loss at any age.

According to the RNID, hearing loss affects over half of the population aged 55 and older in the UK, increasing to over 80% for those over 70.

Myth Six—There is nothing you can do to improve tinnitus

Tinnitus is a common condition that frequently causes, but is not limited to, a ringing sensation in the ears.

Statistics indicate that around one in eight people in the UK experience tinnitus. It can be frustrating and distressing to manage and, in severe cases, significantly reduce quality of life.

A common misconception is that tinnitus is untreatable. However, while tinnitus can be caused by factors such as earwax buildup and inner ear damage, research shows that approximately 90% of cases result from hearing loss.

Therefore, experts advise that treating hearing loss can mitigate tinnitus symptoms.

Many individuals report becoming unaware of their tinnitus symptoms when using hearing aids, some of which have a 'tinnitus relief' setting that creates soothing background noise to alleviate symptoms.

Myth Seven—Hearing assessments are only for people who have hearing

 concerns

Many individuals postpone having a hearing assessment until they notice hearing issues. However, similar to other health check-ups, regular hearing assessments are important, regardless of the presence or absence of hearing loss.

Early detection of hearing loss significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment.

Hearing assessments are particularly vital because hearing loss can easily go unnoticed. If you are struggling with hearing loss, remember that you are not alone, and help is available.

For many, reaching out, connecting with others, seeking treatment, and dispelling hearing loss myths can make a significant difference.

Even if you are uncertain about having hearing loss or have not considered testing, regular checks, akin to eye examinations, are crucial for preventing further hearing damage and safeguarding long-term health.

The Hearing Services Kingston offers a wide range of services, including various hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, speech testing, wax removal (micro suction and irrigation), and it caters to people of all ages from as young as five years old.

You can find out more about the clinic or book an appointment either by visiting its

 website, calling +44 0207 856 0319, or by emailing [email protected].

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