For those without hearing aids, keeping up with conversations and overcoming the anxiety of being in social settings may result in stress-related psychological symptoms. These include embarrassment, depression, frustration, anxiety, insecurity and low self-esteem. Untreated hearing loss can also make a person irritable and less tolerant of others.

Common social problems for people with untreated hearing loss include withdrawal from social contact, inattentiveness and lack of concentration. These individuals often pretend to understand in order to mask their disability. A recent survey showed that 71% of hard-of-hearing people felt isolated because of their hearing loss, 40% avoided meeting new people, and 91% had difficulties coping in public places.

Oftentimes, people suffering from untreated hearing loss exhibit physical problems that can include exhaustion, headache and vertigo. Eating and sleep disorders, stomach problems and high blood pressure are also associated with this condition. Surveys by the National Council on Aging indicate that physical symptoms lessen or disappear completely when the hearing impaired are treated with properly-fitted hearing aids.

It is important to be aware of these potential signs in order to recognize them in our friends and loved ones. A person afflicted with a hearing loss may be unaware of his difficulty, making it necessary for others to intervene to help him.

An individual who seeks help at the first signs of hearing loss will reap the maximum rewards possible from amplification. Although hearing aids do not cure hearing loss, those who are fitted appropriately enjoy a more fulfilling quality of life.