Are you experiencing hearing loss? If so, you should schedule a hearing test with an audiologist. Hearing check-ups are something we should all be doing every 10 years. Over the age of 65, you may even want to be undergoing a hearing test every year.
Why are Regular Hearing Check-Ups Important?
Hearing check-ups are important for measuring hearing quality. They can determine whether you need a hearing aid and can tell you exactly which frequencies need to be amplified. You should schedule hearing tests regularly because it can track to see if your hearing has changed, and if you need your hearing aids readjusted to match your current needs.
Hearing Loss Isn’t Always Immediately Noticeable
Hearing loss isn’t always immediately apparent, and its subtle progression may go unnoticed. Often, individuals adapt to gradual changes, making it challenging to recognize the extent of their hearing loss. Scheduling regular hearing tests is crucial to detect potential issues early on, even when symptoms are not readily clear. By proactively monitoring hearing health, individuals can address any concerns promptly, allowing for timely interventions and the preservation of optimal auditory function.
Undiagnosed Hearing Loss Can Lead to Several Problems
Untreated hearing loss can lead to various challenges and complications in daily life. Communication difficulties may strain relationships, both personally and professionally, causing misunderstandings and frustration. Additionally, undiagnosed hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of conditions like dementia. Regular hearing check-ups are crucial in identifying and addressing hearing issues early, preventing these potential problems and ensuring a better quality of life.
Your Hearing Could Continue to Change Over Time
If you have already been diagnosed with hearing loss and you wear a hearing aid, you should still go for regular check-ups. This is because hearing loss may change over time, which will require your hearing aid to be readjusted. Your audiologist can measure these changes with frequent hearing test.
What Happens During a Hearing Check-Up?
Hearing check-ups are essentially hearing tests that are carried out with the help of an audiologist. The test involves sitting in a quiet room while wearing headphones. A series of sounds are played through the headphones. You must then press a button or repeat back a word to show that you have heard the sound. An audiologist will guide you through the process so that you know exactly what you’re doing.
Hearing tests take 30 minutes to an hour on average. Results are plotted on an audiogram, which can determine which prescription of hearing aid you need if you have hearing loss. If you need a hearing aid, your audiologist will discuss the different options with you. These options include, in the ear (ITE), behind the ear (BTE) and in the canal (ITC). Once you have chosen the device for you, your audiologist will schedule an appointment for your hearing aid fitting.
To schedule a hearing check-up, search for a local audiologist and contact them to see what appointments they have available. Hearing tests are usually carried out in a clinic but can be carried out online. If you want to learn more about hearing loss or what happens during a hearing test, contact an audiologist.