Mr. Nguyen Van Manh's wife, in Chuong My ward, Hanoi, started hearing loss from the age of 13. This condition progressed over time even though she used to use a hearing aid. After a few years, the device no longer met her hearing ability, causing her many difficulties in work and daily life.
Mr. Manh said that his wife not listening clearly sometimes affects seemingly very small communications in life.
Sometimes when I need to solve something quickly, I give a sign or talk, but my wife doesn't understand, the reflexes are slow. From those small things, sometimes both of us get angry. Poor listening greatly affects the spirit, sometimes my wife is stressed," Mr. Manh shared.
After many times taking his wife for examination and learning about cases with similar conditions, he encouraged her to go to the Central Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital for examination, assessment of hearing ability and perform cochlear implantation.
Dr. Le Hong Anh, Head of the Department of Neurology, Central Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, said that the patient belongs to the group of hearing impairment, starting from the age of 13. After 33 years, this condition not only affects communication but also affects work and psychology, at times the patient falls into a state of stress and depression.
Before the surgery, the patient held my hand and said: I give my 33-year dream to you, please help me make it come true. I have longed to hear it fully for a long time. Before this surgery, there were also many emotions, both happy for the patient and pressure for myself to have the most perfect surgery," Dr. Le Hong Anh shared.
According to Dr. Hong Anh, cases of hearing loss that need treatment are not only elderly people but also many adults of working age. If not properly consulted and intervened, this condition can significantly affect communication, work and mental health.
The cost of cochlear implantation is still one of the barriers for patients. Although the price has decreased compared to before, this is still a large expense for many families. According to doctors, this method is currently not covered by health insurance. Having support policies is expected to reduce financial burdens and expand access to treatment for patients.
Doctors also warn that prolonged hearing loss not only reduces communication ability but can also affect brain activity. People with hearing problems may reduce their ability to concentrate, navigate space, social interact and receive information.
Some studies show that hearing loss is an important risk factor associated with cognitive decline in adults, especially in older age groups.
Doctors recommend that when signs of hearing loss appear, people should go for an early examination to determine the cause, assess the extent of hearing loss and choose appropriate support solutions. Intervention at the right time not only helps improve hearing ability but also contributes to maintaining communication, work and quality of life.
