Office Hours:
Monday - Friday:
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Our Location:
353 Christine St #4
Cape Girardeau, MO 63703
Contact Info:
573.335.5443
Our Provider:
Dan Shandy, B.A., BC-HIS
Board-Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist
HEARING LOSS FACTS
Hearing loss is a very common condition
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates over 5% of the global population – or 430 million people – require hearing rehabilitation for disabling hearing loss.
Hearing loss is more common as we age
While it can affect people of all ages, over 25% of those over 65 years old have disabling hearing loss according to the WHO.
It’s important to remember hearing loss isn’t exclusive to older adults
The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) reports over 30 million Americans under 65 have some degree of hearing loss.
Exposure to loud noises is a major cause of hearing loss
Any sound above 85 decibels (dB) can damage hearing cells, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
People with hearing loss often wait an average of 7 years before seeking help
According to the Center for Hearing and Communication. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Hearing loss can have a profound impact on daily life beyond just difficulty hearing
It can lead to social isolation, communication challenges, and even cognitive decline.
The good news is that hearing loss can be treated effectively in most cases
Hearing aids are a common solution, but there are also other options available depending on the type and severity of hearing loss.
Hearing healthcare can be expensive
Nightingale Hearing can help navigate insurance options and explore potential financial solutions to make hearing care accessible.
Hearing aid technology is constantly evolving
Nightingale Hearing stays up-to-date on the latest advancements to offer patients the most effective and comfortable solutions.
Investing in your hearing health is an investment in your overall well-being
Treating hearing loss can significantly improve your quality of life by enhancing communication, social connection, and overall emotional well-being.
COMMON SIGNS OF HEARING LOSS
Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
This can be due to difficulty understanding speech, especially at softer volumes or with background noise.
Difficulty hearing conversations in noisy environments
Background noise like crowds, restaurants, or even conversations in a car can become overwhelming and make it hard to follow along.
Difficulty following conversations
Missing parts of conversations or needing clarification can be a sign of hearing loss.
Having the volume on the TV or radio turned up louder than usual
You might notice yourself needing to constantly increase the volume for others to find it comfortable.
Experiencing ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
While tinnitus can occur on its own, it’s also a common symptom of hearing loss.
Straining to hear high-pitched sounds
Difficulty hearing sounds like birds chirping, children’s voices, or doorbell rings can be an indicator of hearing loss.
Misunderstanding speech, especially consonants
Sounds like “f,” “s,” “th,” or “v” can be particularly challenging to hear with hearing loss.
Feeling fatigued after social interactions
The extra effort required to concentrate on conversations can leave you feeling drained after social events.
Withdrawing from social situations
Difficulty hearing can lead to social isolation as conversations become frustrating or overwhelming.
Family members noticing changes in your hearing
Sometimes loved ones might be the first to notice changes in your hearing before you do.
HEARING LOSS FACTS
Social Impact
Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation and withdrawal from activities you once enjoyed, impacting your overall well-being.
Cognitive Decline
Studies suggest a link between untreated hearing loss and a faster decline in cognitive abilities such as memory, focus, and information processing.
Mental Health
Untreated hearing loss can increase your risk of developing depression, anxiety, and even paranoia due to the frustration and social isolation it can cause.
Physical Health
There’s a potential association between untreated hearing loss and an increased risk for high blood pressure. Early intervention is recommended.
Early Detection is Key
The sooner you address hearing loss, the better. Early intervention can improve outcomes and potentially prevent related health complications.
Brain Health
Research suggests a connection between untreated hearing loss and an increased risk of developing dementia later in life.
Hidden Costs
Untreated hearing loss can have hidden costs beyond the hearing aids themselves. Social isolation, for example, can lead to increased healthcare needs.
Global Impact
Hearing loss is a widespread issue. The World Health Organization estimates over 360 million people globally have disabling hearing loss.
Hearing Loss Affects All Ages
While more common in older adults, hearing loss can affect people of all ages due to various factors like noise exposure.
Healthy Habits for Hearing
While not a cure, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with good blood pressure control, exercise, and a balanced diet can contribute to overall ear health.