Hearing loss frequently starts out with slight, almost unperceivable changes that can be easy to miss. Typically, it is loved ones who are the first to observe and bring awareness to a person’s hearing problem. Although children are routinely tested, many adults do not think about scheduling a hearing test like they would for their vision.
Indications That You May Require a Hearing Assessment
Throughout the day, there are many occasions when you might miss certain things and especially not hear the same things as other people.
- Are you regularly asking people to repeat themselves?
- Do you notice that you are increasing the volume on your TV?
- Is it difficult to understand everyone at a noisy restaurant?
- Are miscommunications or misinterpretations in your personal or professional life leading to conflicts?
Such episodes can occur frequently and have a lasting impact on interpersonal connections.
Specific Reasons Why You Should Have Your Hearing Checked On A Regular Basis
According to the guidelines provided by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, adults are recommended to have a hearing screening every 10 years before reaching the age of 50. For adults aged 50 and above, it is advised to have a hearing assessment every 3 years.
1. Genetic makeup
If other members of your family have hearing issues, this is an excellent reason to set up a hearing test with a hearing professional.
2. Establish a Reference Point for Your Present Hearing Level
Once you know your hearing ability in each ear, you become aware of any issues.
There are sounds you might not be hearing and impairments that might require further evaluations or treatments.
3. Helps Measure Future Changes
Each new test will compare new information with previous tests. Some changes occur gradually, and the tests will identify any changes even if you can’t.
4. Assists in Recognizing and Managing Issues at an Early Stage
New tests monitor changes and how quickly they are occurring, which can help identify and treat problems early, including an accumulation of earwax or noise-induced hearing loss.
5. Diagnose Medical Conditions
In some scenarios, hearing loss can be a sign of a more significant root health issue, including diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or kidney disease, all of which have been linked to hearing problems and tinnitus. Managing the root medical conditions that are causing it could potentially alleviate hearing loss.
6. Minimize Additional Harm
When a patient doesn’t get treatment, they can become despondent and fear social settings, inviting isolation and more depression. Elderly individuals dealing with hearing troubles may be at a higher danger of sustaining injuries due to their inability to hear alert signals such as car horns, smoke alarms, and other warning sounds. Additionally, research has revealed a connection between neglected hearing loss and an elevated risk of developing dementia and experiencing falls.
Finding the Information You’re Looking For
You might have wondered if you’re experiencing some degree of hearing loss. Now you have answers, including the understanding that hearing aids will enhance not only your hearing but also your relationships with family, friends, and co-workers.
Once your hearing loss is treated with the suitable hearing aids, you’ll be able to hear more efficiently during discussions or work meetings, or simply listen to your child’s laughter or a loved one’s voice.
Reach out to us to set up a hearing evaluation or if you’re concerned that you may be experiencing hearing difficulties.