Does Hearing Loss Cause Headaches?

Experiencing hearing loss can be frustrating for you and your loved ones.   Hearing is something that is a part of your life and vitality. However, when hearing loss occurs, it can create additional issues.  You may lose your sense of balance and be at increased risk of falling. It may contribute to early-onset dementia.

Hearing loss can affect your cognitive function abilities like memory, thinking, reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making, and loss of attention. Dementia shares many of these same symptoms since sound processing and cognitive function share the same space in the brain.  When the brain can’t process sound correct, it contributes to atrophy of the brain because your cells aren’t the way making the proper connections it needs to stay healthy.  

The sooner you seek medical when you experience symptoms of hearing loss, the easier it is to find a cause and create a plan that will help treat and possibly cure your hearing loss.

Hearing Loss Causes a Ripple Effect on the Body and Mind

In recent years, there have been many studies that have concluded that there is a connection between hearing loss and dementia. However, there is still much to learn.  The current theory suggests that with hearing loss, the brain losses some neural connections.  This causes the brain to shrink which is called brain atrophy.  Scientists know there is a link between dementia and hearing loss, but there still needs to be more research.  Since many of the symptoms of hearing loss and dementia are similar, it is important to visit your doctor about what is occurring in your life.  

There is a strong connection between hearing loss, aging, and the brain shrinking. As some people age, they begin to self-isolate because they can’t hear as well.  They find interactions to be exhausting and confusing. This affects the total health of a person. Isolation can cause anxiety and depression as well as a lack of stimulation for the brain.  The lack of social interaction impacts the body and mind creating a ripple effect that increases brain atrophy and possible dementia.  The brain needs to socialize to stay healthy. When you can hear, you become stuck in a negative pattern of loss and isolation.

 It is important to see your healthcare provider for regular exams and talk to them about the symptoms you or a loved one is experiencing.  The earlier the issue can be correctly diagnosed, the easier it is to treat the problem.  You will be referred to a specialist who can devise a treatment plan that improves your hearing and brings back your quality of life.

Hearing Loss Headaches

There is a connection between headaches and hearing loss. However, neither directly affects the other. Migraines don’t cause hearing loss. Hearing loss doesn’t contribute to migraines Hearing loss and migraines can be compounded by the amount of blood flowing through the brain.  Lack of circulation can cause hearing loss and damage the hair cells in the ears. Migraines can increase ear sensitivity and tinnitus, ringing in the ears.

Also, if you are experiencing other symptoms like discharge, redness of the ear, swelling, fever, night sweaters, vomiting, or weight loss. Or if your tinnitus is getting worse,  you should seek medical attention right away. 

Treatments for Symptoms of Hearing Loss

There isn’t a single treatment for hearing loss. Each case is unique to the individual. Your audiologist will help you develop an intervention that fits your hearing needs.  Several possible treatments may help or improve your hearing.

• Ear Wax Removal – Ear wax can build up causing hearing loss.  Your audiologist with use a safe method to remove the earwax. Your hearing will be restored. –
• Antibiotics – If you have an ear infection or oozing in your ear, antibiotics will get you back to hearing well.
• Surgical Procedures – are used when there is an abnormality in your ear or excessive fluid.
• Hearing Aids- If you have hearing loss in your inner ear. Your audiologist will work with you to determine the best aid for you and ensure you get a great fit.
• Cochlear Implants –if your hearing loss is severe a cochlear implant may be an option. Your audiologist will work with a Medical doctor with a specialty in hearing loss to help you with the implants.

If you are having a difficult time hearing conversations or missing important information, contact the Hearing Associates of Las Vegas. Hearing loss is a significant factor in cognitive decline. It is easier to prevent dementia than it is to cure.   We are the specialists that can help diagnose your hearing and develop a treatment plan individualized to your needs. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones get back to hearing well so you can live your best life and stay healthy.