People are becoming self-dependent more than they ever did. Does your car need some repairs? Simply watch that YouTube video. Is your sink clogged? YouTube video. Attempting to learn cursive writing? YouTube… look, you get the point.
You can find any information you might want to know and self-learning has never been more available. Does that mean you’ll never require a specialist ever again?
Well, not exactly. Hearing aids are a practical example. Let’s picture that you develop a need for these beneficial little devices. Does that mean you should just drive up to the local pharmacy and get a pair of over-the-counter hearing aids? Although this may make you feel self-sufficient and sound like the convenient solution, there are a few real disadvantages. Actually, your hearing aids will be more comfortable and effective if you come in to get a consultation with us.
What are the symptoms of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss might appear to be straightforward, even obvious. Things get harder to hear, right? While that might sometimes be the case, in other circumstances the symptoms can be less apparent. Certainly, individuals frequently miss the signs of hearing loss because they don’t know what to watch out for.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of hearing loss include the following:
- The persistent need to turn the volume up: Are you always turning up the volume on your television? Well, that’s a sign of hearing loss. This one is frequently missed because it develops slowly over a long time period.
- Requesting that people repeat themselves: You’re frequently needing people to repeat what they said. This is a sign of hearing loss, even if it seems like the volume is the problem. You should consider whether it’s a problem with your ears if lots of people start to seem like their “mumbling”.
- Headaches and fatigue: Typically, when you have hearing loss, your brain struggles to keep up. It’s having to work extra hard to process information, it’s like squinting constantly, but with your ears. This can trigger chronic headaches and fatigue.
- Problems hearing conversations in noisy settings: When you’re out at dinner with family and friends, you have a difficult time following along with conversations. You should definitely pay attention if you notice this symptom because it’s a rather strong sign of hearing loss.
Of course, these symptoms aren’t always the only symptoms of hearing loss. Everybody’s experience will be a bit different. But if you are noticing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to visit us to get a diagnosis.
Can a diagnosis be helpful?
So, you are realizing that you can’t hear as well as you used to. Why not simply go to the store and purchase an over-the-counter hearing aid? Well, that would be sort of like purchasing some corrective glasses without determining your prescription. It may work in some cases. But understanding more about your condition is definitely indispensable.
That’s because hearing loss is a complex condition. It’s not as if the volume in your ear is merely turned down. Actually, people tend to lose their hearing in specific frequency ranges as the stereocilia in the ear become damaged.
And it often goes undetected. The brain is quite good at compensating for these things. That’s why a hearing test is typically needed. This screening process can help you expose hearing loss you may not even know you have. This will also allow you to know which frequencies you’re beginning to lose (and be better able to manage your symptoms as a result.)
Seeing a hearing specialist has its benefits
When you go and purchase a hearing aid off the shelf, you’ll be doing your best to match what’s available on the shelf with what you require.
But your hearing aids can be calibrated to your particular hearing needs if you go to a hearing specialist. We will help you choose the ideal device for your needs and we will tune it to boost the specific frequency that you’re having difficulty hearing.
Here are some other benefits to seeing a hearing specialist:
- Your hearing specialist can also help you understand how to adjust your hearing aid successfully. This is critical to a good experience with your devices.
- Your hearing specialist can help you understand how to get the most out of your hearing aids if you’re having difficulty understanding how to best use them.
- The ability to help you personalize the general fit of your hearing aid, making sure your devices are comfortable and work effectively.
- Your hearing specialist can make sure that your hearing aids last as long as possible by helping you understand and plan appropriate upkeep and maintenance.
Even if you get lucky enough to pick the best hearing aids for you, if don’t have the benefit of a hearing specialist, your hearing experience will most likely be less than ideal.
Also, hearing specialists will be able to help you manage your hearing loss symptoms. With the correct approach, you’ll be a lot less likely to lose touch with friends or become distant with family on account of your hearing loss symptoms. Those connections will be preserved. And for most individuals, that’s one of the most important parts of life.
Everything doesn’t always have to be DIY
Seeking help with your hearing aid doesn’t mean you are in some way less self-sufficient. In fact, it’s actually the opposite. The right hearing aid can increase your independence and self-sufficiency.
A hearing specialist can help you diagnose your hearing loss, regulate your symptoms, and select the right device for your needs.
In other words, if you suspect you have hearing loss, it’s time to contact us!