Hearing loss affects millions of people in the United States. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about hearing loss and hearing devices, which prevent some people from getting help. It’s important to understand what is true and what is false so that you can receive help for your hearing loss and improve your quality of life and hearing health. Below is a list of the most common myths and misconceptions surrounding hearing loss and hearing aids. 10 Myths About Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids Myth #1: Hearing loss only results from exposure to loud noises. Fact: While noise exposure, specifically exposure to repeated loud noises, is a common cause of hearing loss, other factors such as genetics, aging, medications, and medical conditions can contribute to hearing loss. Myth #2: Hearing aids won’t help me hear sounds I haven’t heard in a long time. Fact: You might actually hear sounds that you haven’t heard in a long time. That’s because hearing aids amplify various frequencies, improving clarity and enabling the perception of new sounds, such as noises in the environment and speech nuances. Myth #3: Hearing loss doesn't impact mental and emotional health. Fact: Hearing loss can affect a person's emotional well-being and cognitive function. It's associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Myth #4: Hearing aids only work for individuals with severe hearing loss. Fact: Hearing aids are not only for severe hearing loss. OTC hearing aids can improve the hearing of those with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, enhancing daily communication and quality of life, without the need for a prescription or visit to the doctor. Myth #5: Hearing aids will make everything sound too loud. Fact: The volume and program settings of hearing aids can be adjusted based on what sounds comfortable to you. OTC hearing aids use advanced technology to ensure sounds are not overly loud and have various program setting options, typically between two to four settings, ensuring the volume is comfortable for you. Myth #6: I only need one hearing aid. Fact: The need for one or two hearing aids depends on the nature and extent of your hearing loss. In many cases, individuals with hearing loss in both ears benefit from wearing two hearing aids. Myth #7: Hearing aids are too noticeable. Fact: Today's hearing aids come in various styles, including discreet and nearly invisible options. Many people won't even notice that you're wearing them. Myth #8: It’s okay to avoid getting hearing aids if I can still hear. Fact: Even if you can still hear to some extent, untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, communication difficulties, and a reduced quality of life. It can also be unsafe if you can’t fully hear auditory cues, such as when crossing the street. Hearing aids could significantly improve your hearing so that you can continue to engage in conversations, maintain relationships, and live a full life. Myth #9: Hearing aids are uncomfortable to wear. Fact: Modern hearing aids are designed for comfort. They are lightweight and often come with various fitting options to ensure a comfortable and secure fit in your ears. Myth #10: Hearing loss is a natural part of aging and there’s nothing I can do about it. Fact: While it's true that hearing can decline with age, it is not an inevitable or untreatable part of the aging process. Many people with hearing loss continue to enjoy good hearing and a high quality of life with the help of OTC hearing aids. Severe Hearing Loss vs. Mild To Moderate Hearing Loss Hearing loss can range from severe to mild and moderate. It’s important to understand the difference since people with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss can potentially benefit from OTC hearing aids - these do not require a prescription, doctor’s visit, or hearing test, and are much more affordable than prescription hearing aids. Someone with severe hearing loss will typically need to visit a doctor or hearing specialist and could require either prescription hearing aids or cochlear implants. You might have perceived mild hearing loss to moderate hearing loss if you experience any of the below: Trouble hearing conversations in noisy places and with a lot of background noise or loud sounds Difficulty hearing someone on the phone Feeling tired from listening Finding it difficult to follow conversations and hear people in group settings Needing to turn up the volume on the TV or radio, even if others say that it’s loud You might have severe hearing loss if you experience one or more of the below signs and symptoms: Difficulty hearing loud noises, even in quiet environments Difficulty hearing conversations You find yourself reading lips as a result of your hearing loss Nano OTC Hearing Aids For Perceived Mild To Moderate Hearing Loss Addressing hearing loss could be as simple as purchasing OTC hearing aids, specifically for people with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. These FDA-regulated devices don't need a prescription, hearing exam, or doctor's appointment. You can try them in the comfort of your home, and you can adjust the volume to suit your specific needs. With Nano OTC hearing aids, you simply pick the best dome size for your ears, turn them on, and put them in. Keep in mind it might take several days or weeks for your ears and brain to get used to them, which is why Nano OTC Hearing Aids comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee and free 24/7 lifetime support. Shop Nano OTC Hearing Aids