Fall is fast approaching and it’s a season not to be missed. There’s so much beauty to see and so much fun to be had. If you’re having hearing issues, it can put a dampener on much of the excitement of fall. Hearing loss is common and can happen at any age, for a number of different reasons. Take a look at more about hearing loss and what to do about it.
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss can be mild, moderate, severe or profound. It often happens gradually and is often just a factor of aging. However, other causes can include a buildup of wax, exposure to loud noises or as a result of other health conditions the individual has. Some of the symptoms of hearing loss include:
- Difficulty understanding speech.
- Difficulty following conversations in crowded places.
- Asking people to repeat themselves.
- Turning the TV or music up louder than usual.
- Ringing, buzzing or hissing in your ears.
- Finding background noises annoying.
These are prevalent symptoms associated with hearing loss, but they often do not signify a significant concern. In many cases, your audiologist will confirm that your overall hearing health is satisfactory. However, in some situations, it may be advisable to consider using a hearing aid as a preventive measure against further hearing decline.
What Happens in a Hearing Test?
If your hearing seems at all different than usual, it’s important to schedule a hearing test. Rest assured that hearing tests are quick and simple. You shouldn’t be with your audiologist for more than an hour. It can help to take any medical notes or medications you’re taking with you to show your audiologist.
Your audiologist will look through your medical records and then ask you some questions about your hearing. Write down the symptoms you have been experiencing so you don’t forget anything. Once your audiologist has all the information required, you’ll be asked to take a hearing test.
You’ll be given a pair of headphones and asked to sit in a noise proof booth. At this time, your audiologist will play sounds periodically and you’ll be asked to press a button whenever you hear them. This test usually takes around twenty minutes. Your audiologist will discuss the results and you may need to attend a follow up appointment to fit a hearing aid if you need one. This is the perfect opportunity to ask your audiologist any questions you may have.
Taking Care of Your Hearing Aid
If you are given a hearing aid, your audiologist will program it to your specific needs. Taking care of your hearing aid will ensure you get the best sound quality and can live your life to the full. Your audiologist will provide you with instructions to keep your hearing aid clean and in good condition.
For instance, it can help to open the battery and microphone ports on your hearing aid at night when you’ve removed them from your ears. This helps any excess moisture escape overnight. You should also remove your hearing aid before going in a shower, swimming pool or hot tub. Getting water inside it could damage it.
How Hearing Loss Could Affect You
Hearing loss can have an impact on an individual’s social experiences. It can lead to communication difficulties, which may require some adjustments and patience from both the individual with hearing loss and their social circle. While there may be occasional challenges, many individuals with hearing loss find creative ways to stay socially engaged and maintain their relationships. Enhancing communication strategies and using hearing aids can help individuals with hearing loss continue to enjoy meaningful social interactions.
Seeking an appointment with an audiologist is the ideal step to address any hints of hearing loss. Even if your symptoms are mild and not particularly noticeable, taking a proactive stance toward your hearing health is beneficial. Regular visits to an audiologist contribute to the enhancement of your hearing health over time.
In addition, your audiologist could spot something in your overall health that is linked with your hearing loss. Hearing loss can sometimes happen in conjunction with other health conditions, like cardiovascular problems or a prior head injury. Your medical records could hold the answers to the future of your hearing health.
Let Fall Be Fun
If you love everything that fall has to bring, don’t let your hearing loss hold you back. A simple visit to an audiologist could put your mind at rest and allow you to get on with life without a worry. If you’d like to make an appointment with an audiologist, we’re ready to assist you. Contact us at Natural Hearing Centers at (888) 221-9156 today.
