According to data collected by various sources, including the World Health Organization, about 5 % of the world’s population has a hearing disability.
Unfortunately, this data further paints a grim picture of the future. By 2050, it’s estimated about 10 % of the world could have hearing problems.
And while these statistics are worrying, there’s a ray of sunshine. Most hearing conditions can be treated or managed if caught early. Therefore, you should make a point to get tested every so often.
Are you feeling some discomfort in your ears? Don’t wait until it’s too late; you can get checked from the comfort of your home. Revolutionary medical tests such as online tests can help you diagnose some of these conditions from the onset.
For example, Phonak Online Hearing Test can detect numerous ear conditions and defects. Better yet, you don’t have to visit the doctor’s office.
Whether you’re at home, in the office, or even in school, you can have an exhaustive ear test and assure your ears’ wellbeing.
Does Age Matter in Ear Infections?
One misconception some people still believe is ear conditions only affect the old and aging. While older people are more susceptible, ear infections and related conditions can affect anyone. As a result, you should never ignore ear issues as they could get worse fast.
Benefits of Early Ear Testing
So, what are some of the advantages of regular ear tests?
1. Improve in Mental Health
Losing your hearing is arguably one of the worst experiences you can undergo. During this process, you have to move from depending on your hearing to using your other senses and related aids.
This harrowing experience can also have a negative impact on your mental health. Data shows patients who lost hearing in one or both ears are susceptible to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
With early testing, doctors can create remedial and curative measures. Besides helping you maintain your hearing, early detention will also save your mental health and wellbeing. Additionally, hearing aids and other gadgets can help you regain some or all of your hearing.
2. Increased Body Stability
As you may know, the ear plays a significant role in movement and stability. For instance, conditions such as vertigo are caused by calcium crystals lodged in the ear. Other conditions such as dizziness are also linked to the ear.
When your ears are working efficiently, you’re more stable, whether walking or standing. Fortunately, extensive research from the Washington School of Medicine reveals corrective measures, such as hearing aids, can help improve balance.
When you have your ears checked regularly, you’ll have the advantage of time and treatment options. This highlights the importance of early testing and why you shouldn’t put off habitual testing.
3. Reduced Risk of Cognitive Decline
Relatively recent studies show that hearing loss increases the risk of brain damage and cognitive impairment. Conditions such as dementia are a lot more prevalent in patients with hearing problems.
Fortunately, with early testing and monitoring, these cognitive issues can be managed and cured in some instances. Proper ear health and regular checkups can also benefit your mental welfare.
If you’re worried about cognitive impairments, talk about it with your ENT healthcare provider. Online hearing tests also come in handy as they can help fix both hearing and mental issues.
4. A Better Social Life
Hearing impairments often come with seclusion and isolation from friends and family. This seclusion can also lead to some of the other conditions highlighted above. These include mental issues such as dementia and depression.
With an improvement in ear health, most patients are revamped and eager to get back to life’s social aspects. Whether it’s going out with friends, taking a walk, or even going to the movies, better hearing conditions are a new lease on life.
Today, more than 400 million people struggle with hearing. With regular testing and monitoring, this number can be significantly mitigated. Ensure you have chronic ear tests, and with the benefit of online tests, you can now get help from anywhere around the globe.
