Clinical reports show that hearing impairment (HI) can be a problem in older adults who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Many people with RA experience some level of hearing loss during their lifetimes. Learn more about the connection between the two.
Hearing Loss
Individuals who have RA complain about fluid or a full sensation in the ears, which makes hearing everyday noises difficult. RA itself can bring about changes inside the ear, creating disturbances in how the ear operates. Any change in the inner ear can affect the passage of sound through the canal and into the ear’s cochlea, which is the auditory portion.
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Hearing Test
Older adults who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis should have hearing tests done on a regular basis to evaluate their condition. This is especially important for people who are currently experiencing some auditory problems. Hearing tests are preventative measures for those with arthritis to determine if they’re at risk for hearing loss because of their condition. Tests are able to detect auditory function in those with RA, even during early stages of the disease.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Arthritis brings about changes to the inner ear and its pathways. This type of hearing loss is known as sensorineural hearing loss, or SNHC, and involves the nerves located in this region. Problems in this area of the ear can cause permanent damage and reduce a person’s ability to hear faint sounds or cause them to be muffled.
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Elderly at Risk
Seniors who have had RA for a long time are likely to have some form of hearing loss compared to the general population. Studies have also found that women are more affected by this problem than their male counterparts.
Hearing loss is a common occurrence in aging adults, but it doesn’t have to keep them from enjoying the things they love and spending their golden years in the safety and comfort of home. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elderly home care. Portland families trust Align Home Care Services to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. To learn more about our reliable, compassionate in-home care services, contact us today.