Hearing loss affects more than just how well you hear -- it can take a toll on your overall health and well-being. But there's good news, according to Keith N. Darrow of Professional Hearing Care in Wisconsin, who holds a Ph.D. from a joint Harvard Medical and M.I.T. program focused on speech and hearing bioscience and technology: You can take steps now to protect your hearing. If you're already experiencing some hearing loss, treating it promptly can provide significant medical benefits.

Dr. Darrow's book, "Preventing Decline: Advances in the Medical Treatment of Hearing Loss and Tinnitus," suggests the following steps to preserve your hearing and offers insights into the benefits better hearing can bring.

1. Protect your ears from loud noises

Exposure to loud noises is a leading cause of hearing loss, damaging the delicate structures of the inner ear. Dr. Darrow recommends minimizing exposure to noisy environments and, when you can't, using earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs.

2. Maintain cardiovascular health

Good circulation is vital for the health of the inner ear. Regular exercise, a balanced diet and managing hypertension and diabetes contribute to overall cardiovascular health, which supports auditory function, Dr. Darrow notes.

3. Avoid ototoxic medications

Certain medications are ototoxic, meaning they can cause hearing loss or tinnitus. Dr. Darrow advises patients to consult with their healthcare providers about the potential auditory side effects of prescribed medications.

4. Limit exposure to ototoxic substances

Certain substances like nicotine and excessive caffeine can damage hearing health. Dr. Darrow recommends reducing or eliminating consumption of these substances.

5. Manage stress

Chronic stress can exacerbate tinnitus and may contribute to hearing difficulties. Dr. Darrow recommends exploring options like mindfulness, meditation or yoga, which can benefit your hearing health.

6. Stay socially active

Social isolation can lead to a decline in auditory processing abilities. Engage in regular social activity, which stimulates the brain and supports cognitive functions related to hearing.

7. Schedule regular hearing checkups

Early detection of hearing issues allows for timely intervention, which can slow or prevent further deterioration.

The medical benefits of treating hearing loss

Hearing better means living better. Here are five medical benefits of treating hearing loss.

Improved quality of life: People who treat their hearing loss often report feeling more confident, socially active and productive.Reduced risk of falling: Hearing loss decreases spatial awareness and balance, so treating it can help lower the risk of falls. Increased cognitive function: Treatment helps reduce the cognitive load required to process sounds, freeing up mental energy and supporting clearer thinking, memory and focus.Improved effects of tinnitus: Tinnitus often coexists with hearing loss. Prescriptive hearing technology can reduce the severity and impact of tinnitus symptoms. Reduced risk of dementia: Untreated hearing loss is linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Addressing hearing loss early may help protect long-term brain health. Read Dr. Darrow's book today!

"Preventing Decline: Advances in the Medical Treatment of Hearing Loss and Tinnitus" provides valuable information for anyone who wants to learn more about hearing loss or tinnitus. You will gain insight into the latest treatments, coping strategies and patient success stories, along with practical tools to improve your quality of life.

To request your free copy of Dr. Darrow's book, visit drdarrowbooks.com or call 608.292.5773.

For more information on hearing health or to book an appointment at a Professional Hearing Care location in Madison, New Lisbon, La Crescent, Viroqua, Appleton, Mauston, La Crosse, Westby, Fitchburg or Green Bay, call 608.292.5773 or visit profhearingcare.com.

This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. Any views, thoughts or opinions in this content belong solely to the advertiser and do not represent the views of Brand Ave. Studios or its parent company.This content was produced by Brand Ave. Studios. The news and editorial departments had no role in its creation or display. Brand Ave. Studios connects advertisers with a targeted audience through compelling content programs, from concept to production and distribution. For more information contact [email protected]. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0

Be the first to know

Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.