(BPT) - Hearing loss is much more common than most people realize. In fact, it is such a prevalent condition that only arthritis and hypertension affect more people. If left untreated, the consequences of hearing loss can be severe and greatly impact the quality of life and personal relationships of those affected. Worst of all, it can end up hurting you and the ones you love.

Whether you are a spouse, a caregiver or a friend of someone with hearing loss, coping with the condition can be difficult. Communication may become greatly hindered, causing you to speak and share less with your loved one. It can also lead to less involvement in social activities and increased feelings of depression or sadness.

“Before my husband found the right treatment for his hearing loss, we found ourselves leaving early from social events or declining them altogether,” says Sherree Listwa of her relationship with husband Howard Listwa. “Hearing all day at work and then again on the weekends for social events was too tiring for Howard. It was a little depressing for both of us as we had three busy sons and many social invitations.”