Sometimes, the results of a choice are clearly visible. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, leads to tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Neglecting routine oil changes can lead to engine failure.

Yet, some costs are subtler, with relationships not immediately evident.
But just because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to consume vegetables, for instance, might not have instant consequences, but your health will eventually diminish.

A perfect illustration of this is occupational hearing loss.
Actual expenses and ramifications may not be instantly apparent, frequently arising only after the fact. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the real price of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s take a closer look.

How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?

Studies suggest that approximately one in six Americans experience some level of hearing trouble. Additionally, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so severe that they can’t hear.

Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. In spite of efforts by the government to control health hazards, 22 million workers are exposed to dangerous noise levels every year.

Another 10 million are exposed to toxins at work that can exacerbate hearing loss. These include some cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some line of work.

What are the costs of hearing loss?

The economic and personal implications of hearing loss might not be immediately obvious, but comprehending these consequences is essential for making educated decisions that prioritize your overall health and quality of life.

Costs in the workplace

Individuals who do not deal with their hearing loss are disclosed to earn approximately $12,000 less yearly than those who have normal hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be attributed to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:

• Harm that may cause a temporary incapacity
• Problems in job effectiveness
• Difficulty hearing/understanding instructions
• Getting into arguments because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
• Missing out on promotions/raises
• Missing work

However, that’s not the end of the story.

Everyday costs

Individuals dealing with neglected hearing loss are more likely to experience troubles in their personal relationships. Research reveals that people dealing with hearing loss are more likely to have disagreements within their families, with 33% of them associating most of their conflicts to their impaired hearing.

A staggering number of people who have hearing loss – roughly one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take steps to attend to their hearing issues. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing loss admit to frequently misleading their loved ones concerning how serious their condition is.

The tension in their personal relationships can also impact their work productivity. People with neglected hearing loss face twice the probability of becoming socially isolated from friends and family. This seclusion leaves them without a crucial support system when coping with sickness, depression, injuries, or declining health.

Costs associated with medical problems

The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, encompassing the costs of managing associated health issues that research has connected to untreated hearing loss, such as:

• Prolonged loneliness can have a varying but substantial impact on accelerating the deterioration of one’s overall health.
• Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
• Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
• Higher likelihood of unexpected falls results in a significant financial strain
• Rising probability of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
• Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)

It’s time to get proactive about your hearing.

Decreasing your risk of hearing loss

As the global prevalence of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes essential to participate in meaningful workplace discussions. Check out these recommendations:

• Adhere to all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, including wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
• Begin open and courteous conversations with your co-workers about work conditions that might result in hearing issues. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your managers.
• Use a sound meter app on your smartphone to perform tests, evaluating the noise levels in your environment when it’s safe to do so. Follow the suggested recommendations of 85 dB for a maximum of 8 hours, 90 decibels for no more than 2 hours, 95 decibels for no more than 50 minutes, 100 decibels for a maximum of 15 minutes, and sound levels of 110 and higher can cause immediate harm.
• Get a hearing test once a year to keep track of changes over time. If you notice your hearing waning, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.

Consider getting expert advice from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore potential options to enhance your hearing on the job. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have considerable financial repercussions, making it essential to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The dangers are too great to postpone taking action.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.