For most people, getting a hearing test is a general part of life. Everyone at some point will experience some difficulty in hearing for a number of reasons. Avoiding to getting a hearing test when you have difficulty hearing can result in a lower quality of life.
Hearing issues can lead to isolation or reduced socialization with family and friends. In turn, this can lead to feelings of depression or anxiety. Hearing loss is also linked to many other health conditions so the sooner you get checked out the better. Here are some signs you may need to schedule a hearing test soon.
It’s Been Too Long Since Your Last One
One of the most common reasons for scheduling a hearing test is leaving it too long since your last one. The best way to receive a correct diagnosis from your audiologist is to attend regular appointments. For the most part, early detection of any issues with hearing is the best thing for prevention.
Your audiologist can advise you on how to prevent further hearing loss. You should visit your audiologist at least every one to three years if you have hearing loss.
History of Noise Exposure
Are you someone who has enjoyed listening to loud music? Perhaps you worked in a loud environment for a long period of time with little to no ear protection. If you have been exposed to loud noises over a period of years, it’s important to get your hearing checked.
Even if you’re getting by with your hearing as it is, further damage can happen in the future. Your audiologist will be able to examine you and recommend hearing aids that could give you the help you need to hear clearly and avoid losing your hearing any further.
Hereditary Hearing Loss
Hearing loss often runs in families. If you have a close relative that has had hearing loss, you could be more susceptible to hearing loss yourself. Getting checked regularly will allow your audiologist to spot any early signs of hearing loss and then advise you accordingly.
Dealing with hearing loss as early as possible will ensure you can continue the best quality of life without your hearing becoming a problem.
Symptoms of Hearing Loss
If you aren’t checked regularly, the first sign that you need a hearing test could be symptoms of hearing loss. Many people make the mistake of thinking that hearing loss means difficulty hearing altogether. However, the first symptoms of hearing loss are often finding that other people mumble in general conversation and difficulty in distinguishing the sounds of certain letters, like ‘s,’ ‘f’ and ‘th.’
Aside from that, you may be able to hear a pin drop in most rooms. But, if you’ve found communication more difficult recently, it’s worth getting a hearing test to find out if you need some help.
You’re Over 65
Did you know that 25% of people aged between 65 and 74 find they have some form of hearing loss? Sadly, hearing loss is common as we age but that doesn’t mean you have to experience hearing loss further. Schedule an appointment for a hearing test and if you’re clear, you’ll only need to be tested every one to three years.
If the audiologist finds something, you can discuss your options and look at hearing aids that best suit you. There are many different styles of hearing aids that your audiologist can discuss with you. The three main styles are behind the ear, in the ear and in the canal.
Memory Loss
Experiencing memory loss is strongly linked to hearing loss. People who experience hearing loss often want to socialize less and avoid group situations because communication is too hard. However, these opportunities to socialize are part of what keeps the brain healthy and active.
When these opportunities are lost or avoided, the brain isn’t exercised properly and memory loss can be the result. People with hearing aids are far more likely to socialize and keep their brains active, thus more likely to avoid memory loss.
Antibiotics
Taking antibiotics can affect your hearing. Chemical related damage called ototoxicity occurs and you’ll need an audiologist to confirm what has happened. If this is the case, your audiologist can create a plan for you to make communication easier.
Book Your Appointment
If any of these warning signs ring true to you, don’t delay your appointment any longer. Getting a checkup can make you feel much healthier and happier and give you hope for moving forward. Talking to an audiologist about your symptoms or simply getting a checkup because you fall under the above categories, is the best thing you can do.
At Natural Hearing Centers, we’re happy to help when you need us. Give us a call today at (888) 221-9156.
