Hearing loss affects approximately 48 million people in the United States and is considered the third most common health problem in America after heart disease and arthritis.

Many patients do not understand the connection between healthy hearing and healthy brain activity. While it is true that our ears capture the sound in the environment, ultimately, our brain is the organ that processes the sound. When an individual has a hearing impairment, the connections between the ear and brain begin to slow down. When the brain does not receive the appropriate levels of hearing, auditory and cognitive deprivation can set in. Studies have shown that people with hearing loss may be up to 500% more likely to develop cognitive decline. They may also be at risk of memory loss and depression. Naturally, individuals who cannot follow a conversation can begin to withdraw or isolate socially.

The good news is that studies also show that addressing and treating hearing loss can help to reduce these risks. If you are experiencing symptoms of hearing loss, you should have a full comprehensive evaluation by an audiologist.

Dr. Yonah Orlofsky is the director of audiology at NJ Eye and Ear. Visit them at www.njeyeandear.com