When you’re young, your Christmas wish list is easy: a doll, a football, or – this being the 21st century – a smartphone. Grown-up Christmas wishes are harder. If you’re experiencing hearing loss in Las Vegas asking Santa for hearing aids may result in the best gift of all.
Hearing Loss in Las Vegas
Hearing loss is widespread in Nevada and throughout the United States. It affects about one in ten Las Vegas residents. The stereotypical patient is a senior citizen, but in reality, only one out of every three people with hearing loss is older than 65. The condition affects people of all ages and does not discriminate based on gender, race, income, etc. Hearing loss is an equal-opportunity affliction.
There are three main types of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the outer or middle ear(s). It is often correctable with medications or surgery. Sounds great – but only 10 percent of Nevadans with hearing loss have this type. The majority are diagnosed with sensorineural hearing loss, which affects the inner ear; unfortunately, this most common type is irreversible. Those with mixed hearing loss experience a combination of both types but are still going to end up with a permanent impairment to some extent. There is good news, however; most cases of sensorineural or mixed hearing loss respond very favorably to treatment with hearing aids.
Hearing Aids Make a Great Stocking Stuffer
If you’ve never worn hearing aids before, you probably have some misconceptions about them. Many people picture big, bulky devices prone to feedback and poor sound quality. That may have been the case a generation ago, but today’s devices are smaller, sleeker, and deliver far superior sound thanks to the proliferation of digital technology. There is a wide variety of styles available in many different sizes; your Las Vegas audiologist will help you select a pair based on your unique needs, including type and degree of hearing loss; activity levels; lifestyle needs; cosmetic preference; and budget. With so many choices out there, you will certainly find one that appeals to you.
When it comes to treating hearing loss, the sooner you act, the better. Left untreated, you are at risk for a number of physical, social, and psychological conditions. People who don’t treat their hearing impairment may suffer from anxiety, depression, loneliness, and isolation. Studies show they are more likely to experience depression and dementia, have a higher risk of diabetes and kidney disease, and are more prone to falling. None of that sounds very fun, does it?
Treating your hearing loss now will ensure you get the most out of the holiday season. This is a magical time of year full of festive cheer, but those with hearing loss often miss out on the fun. Straining to hear can make you tired and irritable, making you want to stay home instead of socializing. Before you know it, Christmas will have come and gone.
Hearing aids make an immediate positive impact on the vast majority of patients who wear them. If you get a pair now – call it an early Christmas gift for yourself! – you’ll embrace the holiday season with enthusiasm as you discover the joys you’ve been missing out on for a while, whether it’s Christmas caroling, religious services, or family gatherings around the dinner table. And if you end up seated next to your interminable Cousin Eddie, you can always turn the volume down and just pretend to listen to him discuss the merits of turkey necks.
There truly is no better time than the holidays to take the plunge and invest in a pair of hearing aids. Contact your Las Vegas audiologist for more information.
Call Nevada Ear + Sinus Institute at (702) 735-7668 for more information or to schedule an appointment.