Hearing allows us to communicate, express our feelings, connect with the world, and live life to the fullest. However, hearing loss is a common condition that affects people of all ages, from newborn to senior citizens.
If left untreated, hearing loss can lead to social isolation, cognitive decline, and other health problems. If you suspect that you have hearing loss, it’s important to get tested to determine the type and degree of your hearing loss and receive appropriate treatment. Audiologists are qualified professionals to diagnose the type and extent of your hearing loss.
Importance of Getting Your Hearing Tested
In most cases, hearing loss is a gradual process. This means that the condition often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe.
As audiologists, we encourage everyone to regularly get their hearing tested, especially for individuals aged over 50, have a family history of hearing loss, or spend time in a high-noise environment.
Hearing tests are painless and non-invasive. They come in various tests that measure your ability to hear sounds of different volumes, frequencies, and intensities.
When should you get a hearing test?
Hearing loss is a gradual process that may take years or even decades to develop. The signs can be subtle at first, which makes it really hard to detect in the early stages.
There are some common early signs of hearing loss that are considered as red flags. Check out some of the first signs of possible hearing loss:
- Difficulty understanding speech in background noise.
- Asking people to repeat themselves often.
- Turning up the volume louder than usual.
- Ringing or buzzing in your ears.
- Experiencing muffled or distorted noises.
Why You Should Go to an Audiologist and Not Rely on Online Hearing Tests
While online hearing tests may seem cost-effective, accessible, and convenient, they’re not supposed to be a substitute for a comprehensive hearing evaluation by a licensed audiologist.
Online hearing tests are often unreliable and inaccurate, as they don’t account for crucial factors such as headphones quality, background noise, and expertise. Additionally, online hearing tests can’t diagnose the specific type and degree of your hearing loss or determine the underlying causes.
Only a licensed audiologist can conduct a comprehensive hearing assessment, interpret the results, and provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.
Types of Hearing Loss
There are three main types of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed.
Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are weakened or blocked as they travel through the middle or outer ear. Earwax buildup, ear infections, or abnormalities in the ear’s anatomical structure are the common culprits for conductive hearing loss.
Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when the auditory nerve or delicate hair cells in the inner ear are damaged or broken. Aging, genetic, noise exposure, or certain medications are the common causes of sensorineural hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is irreversible, but it can be managed with hearing aids, cochlear implants, or assistive listening devices.
Meanwhile, mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Hearing Tests in Melbourne, FL
Hearing loss is a prevalent and often underdiagnosed condition that if left unaddressed, can have a significant impact on your quality of life. We recommend that you get your hearing tested by a licensed audiologist and not merely rely on online hearing tests.
An audiologist can diagnose the type and degree of your hearing loss, determine the underlying causes, and recommend the best personalized treatment options.
Harbor City Hearing Solutions provides comprehensive hearing tests in Melbourne, FL. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
