Learn the warning signs of hearing loss and the stages of grief that can accompany the onset of hearing loss.

There are many people around the world living with undiagnosed hearing loss.  Unfortunately, a great number of people with hearing loss do not understand their condition and are in denial of any medical problem.  In a number of cases, a simple visit to a hearing professional can correct the hearing loss.  In these cases, the hearing loss is caused by an unknown build up of earwax in the ear canal.  Any blockage in the ear will cause hearing loss to some extent.  Even if the problem is more serious than a simple blockage, your doctor can prescribe therapy or hearing aids to alleviate the hearing loss.

Loved ones of those experiencing hearing loss should take care to learn the warning signs of both hearing loss and the grief that can accompany the loss.  Hearing loss warning signs can take many forms, such as avoidance of social situations, the appearance of ignoring others and the lack of interest in life in general.  Often, those with hearing loss will avoid social or crowded situations due to their inability to distinguish individual speech.  Some individuals with the beginning stages of hearing loss can appear to be ignoring others who are speaking.  Generally accompanying the avoidance of social situations is the lack of interest in going outside the house to enjoy simple things, such as grocery shopping or attending a movie.

If the hearing loss continues to remain undiagnosed or untreated, it can lead to more serious social, psychological and medical problems.  Those with hearing loss can also experience symptoms of grief.  Denial, anger, bargaining and depression are all recognized as the general symptoms of grief.  Family and friends of someone experiencing hearing loss should keep a keen eye out for these symptoms in their loved ones.  

As soon as hearing loss is suspected, the person affected should seek the advice of a hearing professional.  Often, an ear, nose and throat physician or even your family doctor can prescribe hearing aids to greatly increase the patient’s enjoyment of life.  Early diagnosis and treatment for hearing loss, through the use of hearing aids, can lessen the effects of grief and trauma associated with hearing loss.

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