Hearing loss is defined by a reduced ability to perceive and process certain sounds, but that experience sets of a chain reaction of other effects for health and wellbeing. The body is a complex, interconnected machine, and when one system suffers, many others are likely to feel the effects. Hearing loss is connected to other health issues, including an increased likelihood of accidents and injuries. Those who have untreated hearing loss are even more likely to return to the hospital for a follow-up visit. Understanding these connections can help you make sense of the feeling of fatigue that many with hearing loss experience. The lack of sonic processing ability and communication issues can be enough to overload the mind, creating exhaustion and frustration. Let’s consider some of the ways that hearing loss can contribute to fatigue. If you have a loved one with hearing loss, this understanding can help you support them in a variety of situations.
Hearing Loss in the Environment
At a basic level, we use our hearing ability to remain aware of the world around us. When we are moving through the world, our sense of hearing is often the first line of defense against danger. Even invisible threats can be brought to our attention through hearing, so it is closely connected to our sense of wellbeing and rest. When our hearing ability is compromised, our sympathetic nervous system is in a state of high alert, and our other senses are called to action to be vigilant about these threats in the environment. For this reason, hearing loss can contribute to a general sense of fatigue as we move through the world. Our other senses and minds are escalated in their responsiveness, and that constant background processing can be exhausting.
Hearing Loss and Communication
When we are communicating, this process can become even more difficult to navigate. We use hearing as part of the complex process of understanding others. Along with visual cues and other subtle impressions, we use our hearing to put together meaning from what others have to say. When hearing ability is compromised, we often scramble to make sense of the world, as if we are assembling a jigsaw puzzle without all the pieces. Missing words and phrases can lead to misunderstandings, and we have to work through these problems in real time. The improvisational nature of conversation means that we need to guess and check what we hear from others to see if it makes sense, but hearing loss confounds this back-and-forth of communication. Hearing loss transforms even a simple conversation into hard work, and many become exhausted after just one conversation. As you can imagine, a party or social gathering can lead to serious fatigue, particularly when others expect us to understand what they say and the questions they ask. Added to these practical concerns are the deeper psychological concerns of embarrassment, frustration, anxiety, and anger surrounding communication.
How You Can Help
If you have a loved one with hearing loss, you can help by understanding the nature of fatigue. When we are exhausted, we tend to shut down, and our emotions can be stretched thin. If you find that your loved one has a short temper, try to be patient and responsive to their needs. Others tend to disengage from the world when they are fatigued, and you can help your loved one get rest and support for this struggle to understand. Blocking out the world comes with serious challenges for cognitive functioning, so the best way to help your loved one is to have a frank conversation about treatment. Getting treatment for hearing loss is the only durable solution to the fatigue that comes with it. When hearing aids are in place and used regularly, they can relieve the mental and emotional exhaustion that comes from the environment and the process of communication. Why not start a conversation with your loved one about seeking treatment. You can encourage your loved one to get the help they need by simply scheduling an appointment for a hearing test. This simple step is the first in the direction of relieving fatigue and exhaustion, improving communication, and strengthening relationships, as well.
