When we hear the term hearing loss, many of us think of someone who simply struggles to hear things unless they are loud enough.
However, hearing loss can cover a wider range of symptoms, such as muffled hearing, a feeling of discomfort or pressure in the ear or even experiencing a buzzing or ringing in the ear – also known as tinnitus, according to the NHS.
A more unusual symptom of hearing loss is when it affects your balance. You may wonder how the two things are connected – but the inner ear actually plays a very important role in balance and keeping you upright.
What Is the Link?
As we age, hair cells within the inner ear can become damaged. This can cause hearing loss and damage to our ability to balance as we did before. Additionally, hearing loss has an effect on our spatial awareness, which may make some people feel disorientated or off balance. Similarly, you may not hear nearby things happening – for example, a car coming – which could cause you to rush or lose your footing.
Some may also argue that hearing loss has other implications, such as social isolation. This eventually leads to weaker muscles and decreased coordination, all of which are precursors to falls or losing one’s balance.
What Can Be Done About This?
It’s always a good idea to arrange a hearing test if you or a relative are experiencing any sign – no matter how small – of trouble hearing. This might be something as small as having to turn the television volume up higher than usual, having trouble hearing what people are saying or experiencing a buzzing or ringing in the ears. Going for a hearing test Bristol or your nearest location offered by a specialist such as www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/bristol/ is a painless and easy experience.
Audiologists are able to give your ear health a good check-over, and if any hearing loss is identified, they can support you with treatments for this on an ongoing basis.
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