Most of us have experienced mental fatigue after listening to the same thing for an extended period of time. Just think about the last time you had a day full of back-to-back Zoom meetings! However, people with hearing loss often experience this fatigue earlier and more frequently. This can make both work and socializing difficult.
Why This Happens 
Hearing loss happens when hair cells in the inner ear are damaged. These cells are responsible for translating sounds into electrical signals which then travel along the auditory nerve to the brain.
When you have hearing loss, your brain has to work harder to process sound, leading to more fatigue. In places where groups of people are talking all at once or where there is a lot of background noise, you may feel even more worn out trying to listen.
If you notice yourself struggling to follow conversations or feeling exhausted after dinner with friends at Blue Corn Harvest Bar and Grill, it may be an early sign of hearing loss.
Hearing Aids Can Help Fight Fatigue
The good news is that by treating your hearing loss with hearing aids, you can help reduce mental fatigue.
A 2013 study found that using hearing aids reduced listening effort and mental fatigue for adults with mild to severe sensorineural hearing loss. Specifically, researchers found that participants had better word recall and faster reaction times when using hearing aids than without.
The reasoning is pretty simple. When you are able to hear better, it puts less of a burden on your brain to try and decipher sound and speech. Because listening is less tiresome, you become less prone to mental fatigue.
Prioritize Your Hearing Health
If you’re concerned that your ability to hear is causing mental fatigue, make an appointment for a hearing test as soon as possible. An audiologist will be able to quickly assess the type and severity of your hearing loss and recommend treatment options.
If they determine you would benefit from hearing aids, they will work with you every step of the way to find a pair that fits your lifestyle and meets your individual hearing needs.
If you have any additional questions or wish to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, call Hill Country Audiology today.