Having Signs of Hearing Loss? Here’s What to Do Next
How to Recognize the Signs of Hearing Loss
If you’re asking yourself, “How do I know if I have hearing loss?”, we’ve got you covered.
Age-related hearing loss often comes on slowly, making it hard to notice or easily explained away, blaming it on background noise, being tired, or not paying attention.
However, if you notice the common signs of hearing loss below, it’s time to make an appointment with a hearing care specialist who can help:
- Asking people to repeat themselves and/or accusing them of mumbling.
- Having a hard time following conversations in noisy environments, but also in quiet ones.
- Constantly turning up volume on the TV, phone, or car speaker, while others are turning it down.
- Feeling tired and drained after socializing and conversation.
- Misunderstanding what is being said. For example, you may hear “cat” instead of “cap” or “sixteen” instead of “sixty.”
- Cancelling plans or activities, or isolating yourself due to the fear of not being able to hear well.
Treating Hearing Loss Sooner Can Protect Overall Health
Untreated hearing loss can affect your brain health
Acting early helps you stay social and independent
The longer you wait, the harder it can be to adapt
What to Expect During the Appointment
A hearing screening usually takes about an hour and is completely painless. Your hearing specialist will ask you some questions to get to know you and your hearing health.
Next, in a acoustically calibrated or sound-treated room, you'll wear headphones and listen for and acknowledge specific tones. The specialist will guide you every step of the way.
An audiogram will show you how well you're hearing certain frequencies.
Bring a loved one for support and clarity
It’s a good idea to bring a friend or family member to the appointment, not only for support, but also so they can be your second set of ears.
They can help recall some of your hearing challenges, provide the doctor with a full picture, and help you remember what the doctor said during the appointment.
Questions to Ask Your Hearing Care Provider
It’s a good idea to write your questions down in advance so you don’t forget what you need to ask while you’re there. Here are some important questions to get you started:
- What type of hearing loss do I have, and what’s causing it?
- Is my hearing loss permanent, and can it be treated?
- Would hearing aids help me? If so, which type is best for my needs?
- How much do hearing aids cost, and what’s included in the price?
- Are there any financing options or insurance coverage available?
- How should I care for my hearing aids?
- How often should I have my hearing checked?
- What features or accessories can help with specific challenges, like hearing in noise or on the phone?
What Happens if Hearing Loss Is Confirmed?
- 1.
Understanding your results
You’ll review your hearing test (audiogram) together. The provider will explain the type, degree, and likely cause of your hearing loss. - 2.
Exploring treatment options
If your hearing loss is treatable, they may recommend hearing aids or medical treatment for issues like earwax or infection. - 3.
Choosing the right hearing aid (if needed)
If hearing aids are appropriate, you’ll discuss styles, features, and technology levels that best match your hearing needs, lifestyle, and budget. - 4.
Fitting and adjustment plan
You’ll be scheduled for a fitting, where the devices will be customized to your hearing profile. Follow-ups are usually planned to fine-tune comfort and performance. - 5.
Support and follow-up care
Ongoing care may include maintenance, troubleshooting, hearing aid cleanings, and periodic hearing checks to monitor any changes.
Summary
Seeking out professional hearing care as soon as you notice hearing loss symptoms is key to catching concerns early, making them easier to treat.
From online hearing tests to professional hearing screenings, these tools put the power in your hands so you can take control of your hearing health.
Don't wait!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common early signs of hearing loss?
How do I know when it’s time for a hearing test?
Is hearing loss permanent?
Will I definitely need a hearing aid?
How long does it take to adjust to hearing aids?
Sources
1 Cleveland Clinic: “New Research Highlights Connection Between Hearing Loss Interventions and Cognitive Decline.” https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/new-research-highlights-connection-between-hearing-loss-interventions-and-cognitive-decline
2 Johns Hopkins Medicine. "The Hidden Risks of Hearing Loss." https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-hidden-risks-of-hearing-loss
