People are becoming self-dependent more than ever before. Want to fix up your car? You can learn how to do that by watching a YouTube video. Is your sink clogged? YouTube video. Want to learn how to do calligraphy? Yup…you guessed it…..YouTube.
You can find any information you may want to know and self-learning has never been more available. Does that mean you’ll never require a professional ever again?
Not always. Hearing aids are a good example. Imagine if you detect some hearing loss and find yourself in need of these practical little devices. Should you race out to Walmart and pick up a pair of over-the-counter hearing aids? It sounds fairly effortless (and gives you the impression of self-sufficiency), but there are some substantial drawbacks. In reality, your hearing aids will be more comfortable and reliable if you come in to get a consultation with us.
What are the signs of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss may seem clear-cut, even obvious. You are unable to hear as well, right? While that might sometimes be the truth, in other circumstances the symptoms can be less evident. In many cases, we are unaware of what to watch out for and we miss the symptoms of hearing loss.
Some of the most common symptoms of hearing loss include the following:
- Having a difficult time hearing when it’s loud: Do you have a hard time following conversations when you go out to dinner with friends or family? You should definitely pay attention if you notice this symptom because it’s a rather strong indication of hearing loss.
- The persistent need to turn the volume up: Are you constantly turning up the volume on your television? Well, that’s an indicator of hearing loss. This is one of the more obvious ones, but it tends to develop so slowly that it’s frequently missed.
- Asking people to repeat themselves: You’re often needing people to repeat what they said. Even if you feel like people are speaking quietly, it’s actually hearing loss that’s the issue. If you start to experience a great number of people who “mumble,” it might be your ears that are the problem.
- Tiredness and headaches: Typically, when you have hearing loss, your brain struggles to keep up. It’s like you’re constantly squinting with your ears as your brain works overtime attempting to process sound. This can result in chronic headaches and tiredness.
Obviously, there are other symptoms of hearing loss besides these. Everybody’s hearing loss experience is distinctive. But you should certainly come see us for an assessment if you are noticing any of these symptoms.
Why is a diagnosis useful?
So, you have hearing loss symptoms. Perhaps you should run out to your local box-store and buy an over-the-counter hearing aid. Well, would you go out and buy prescription glasses without getting an eye exam? It may work in some cases. But understanding more about your condition is really essential.
That’s because hearing loss is a complex issue. It’s not like the volume in your ear is simply turned down. Instead, as stereocilia inside of your ear get damaged, you often lose your hearing in parts at a time, that is, you usually lose the ability to hear high-frequency or low-frequency sounds first.
And it frequently goes undetected. The brain is very good at compensating for these things. That’s why a hearing exam is often required. This screening process can help you discover hearing loss you might not even know you have. You’ll also have the opportunity to properly diagnose which frequencies are fading the fastest (and be better capable of managing your symptoms as a result.)
Visiting a hearing specialist has its benefits
Matching your hearing needs to the available selection on the shelf will be something you’ll have to do on your own if you decide on over-the-counter hearing aids.
But when you visit a hearing specialist, your hearing aids can be customized to your requirements. Your hearing specialist can help you select the best device for your symptoms and then customize that device specifically for the frequency you need assistance with.
Your hearing specialist will also have the following benefits:
- 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.
- Adjusting your hearing aid more successfully is also something your hearing specialist can also help you with. This is crucial to a quality experience with your devices.
- Your hearing specialist can help you plan the necessary maintenance for your hearing aid, ensuring that your devices last for as long as possible.
- Confidence, that your device will be comfortable by getting a professional fitting.
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 probably be less than optimal.
You will also be better capable of managing your hearing loss symptoms with the help of a hearing specialist. With the right approach, you’ll be much less likely to lose friends or become isolated from your family on account of your hearing loss symptoms. You’ll be able to maintain those connections. And that can be exceedingly important.
Not everything has to be DIY
Seeking help with your hearing aid doesn’t mean you are somehow less self-sufficient. As a matter of fact, it’s actually the opposite. The right hearing aid can improve your independence and self-sufficiency.
Diagnosing your hearing loss, managing your symptoms, and choosing the correct hearing aids are all things that your hearing specialist will help you do.
In other words, if you suspect you have hearing loss, it’s time to call us!