Hearing loss and Alzheimer’s can be interconnected with each other as some studies say. Hearing loss may increase the chance of dementia if not properly treated. This blog article focuses on the potential link between hearing loss and developing Alzheimer’s disease. By discussing the different factors, we have tried to understand the link between Hearing loss and Alzheimer’s and the effective ways to get rid of such a health issue. The best way to avoid the risk of Alzheimer’s disease has also been suggested here.
Age-related hearing loss and Alzheimer’s
Age-related hearing difficulty is a common health issue for the elderly. It mainly started from feeling difficulty in listening to sounds in noisy areas. There are two types of hearing loss such as peripheral hearing loss and Central hearing loss.
Peripheral hearing loss – Peripheral hearing loss is the disability of the ears to hear sounds. It may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. Hearing aids can be beneficial in mitigating hearing issues.
Central hearing loss – Central hearing loss denotes the malfunctioning of the brain to process sound. It can not be restored by hearing aids. In such a condition, the sound processing part of the brain is affected by the disease. These can be the symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Link between Hearing loss and Alzheimer’s
According to some studies, if hearing loss is linked to the risk of Alzheimer’s, then the period from when an individual suffers from the hearing loss matters.
According to the study by JAMA Neurology in 2011, it can be found that mild hearing loss can twice the risk of developing dementia than individuals with normal hearing capability.
Moderate hearing loss can enhance three times the risk of Alzheimer’s and severe hearing loss can increase the risk by five times.
1. Cognitive Decline
Hearing loss creates pressure on the brain to listen and understand the sound coming in the ears. This stress on the brain may lead to cognitive decline.
Vascular neuroimmune and neurodegenerative conditions may lead to increasing dementia. Hearing loss affects the function of the brain. A proper treatment of hearing loss is needed to reduce the cognitive decline among older adults.
2. Depression and Social Isolation
Depression and social isolation are the common consequences of dementia. Thinking ability is also affected by the problem of dementia.
There is no direct link between hearing loss and Alzheimer’s, as an individual suffering from hearing issues does not mean that they must develop the problem of dementia. There is a higher risk of dementia.
As per the report of a study in 2020 says that dementia is one of the most harmful effects of hearing loss.
3. Biological and Genetic Factors
According to some research, hearing loss and Alzheimer’s share unidentified and common genetic influences or vulnerability through inflammatory pathways. Some other studies found that genetic architecture shows the link between Hearing loss and Alzheimer’s.
4. Structural Changes
Individuals with hearing loss can experience faster atrophy in the brainstem and cerebellum. That results in the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Molecular Pathways
According to a study, the molecular pathways involve the protein GDF1, and hearing difficulty suppresses GDF1, which causes an increased potential risk of Alzheimer’s. GDF1 may contribute to the development of cognitive decline.
Treat hearing loss to mitigate the risk of dementia
Hearing difficulty needs to be assessed properly through advanced auditory and vestibular tests. Consultation with an audiologist and treatment helps to mitigate the risk of developing dementia.
Different types of hearing aids are available to restore hearing ability. Necessary tests and treatment at the early stage of hearing loss are essential to avoid the risk of dementia. You need to avoid listening to loud noises such as sounds of horns, crackers for a long period, and you can also use ear protection when needed.
Being aware at the younger age about your hearing issue is beneficial to avoid any risk of dementia. Auditory assessment is beneficial to detect the potential cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer’s.
Using hearing aids can be helpful to restore auditory stimulation that is essential for cognitive health.
The detection of molecular pathways such as the GDF1 can create the necessity of new therapies and treatments to prevent the risk or to treat Alzheimer’s disease.
If you are experiencing hearing difficulties and want to keep away from the consequences of hearing loss, you can contact us at Aural Care, one of the most trusted hearing solutions clinics in Kolkata. We arrange several vestibular tests to cure your hearing loss at the root. We offer the best quality hearing aid after assessing your range of hearing loss. We offer personalized care and treatment to meet your unique needs. We use the latest technology-based equipment to test hearing difficulty and high-quality hearing devices as per your needs and preferences.
Join us today to enjoy an excellent, seamless listening experience.
Conclusion
According to some study reports, there is a link between Hearing loss and Alzheimer’s. At an old age, acute hearing loss may lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Treating your hearing loss at the early stage is essential to avoid the risk of dementia. Some studies found that the higher the range of hearing loss, the risk of developing dementia will increase. Consulting with an experienced audiologist can be the best decision to restore your hearing ability and to enjoy a natural listening experience.
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