Hearing loss affects a significant portion of the US population, with around one in eight individuals aged 12 or older experiencing it in both ears due to various factors such as age, genetics, and noise exposure. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, untreated hearing loss can lead to serious consequences, including an increased risk of dementia.
Dementia is a group of disorders characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and other symptoms that significantly affect one's quality of life. Recent studies have found that hearing loss is the leading modifiable risk factor for dementia according to a 2020 Lancet commission report.
Hearing loss can contribute to the risk of dementia in several ways. It can lead to social isolation, which is a risk factor for dementia. It can also cause the brain to work harder to process sounds and cause the aging brain to shrink more quickly, making it more susceptible to cognitive decline and dementia. Treatment for hearing loss can reduce the risk of dementia by approximately 8%, more than any other risk factor alone.
Visit Texas ENT Specialists
If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, seeking treatment from an ENT specialist is crucial. Texas ENT Specialists offers a wide range of services, including hearing tests, hearing aids, and other assistive devices, to help diagnose and treat hearing loss. Don't hesitate to contact us today to learn how we can help protect your hearing and reduce your risk of dementia.
