People are becoming self-dependent more than they ever did. Want to remodel your kitchen? Just watch that YouTube video. Is your sink clogged? Again with the YouTube. Attempting to learn cursive writing? Yup…you guessed it…..YouTube.
You can discover any information you might want to learn and self-learning has never been more available. So the real question is, are we finished needing experts?
Well, not exactly. Hearing aids are a good example. Imagine if you notice some hearing loss and find yourself in need of these practical little devices. Should you run out to Walmart and pick up a set of over-the-counter hearing aids? It sounds fairly effortless (and gives you the illusion of self-sufficiency), but there are a few significant drawbacks. Actually, 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 might seem clear-cut, even obvious. Things become more difficult to hear, right? Well, yes, but the presentations of hearing loss can be much more variable, and far less evident. In many cases, we are unaware of what to watch out for and we miss the symptoms of hearing loss.
Here are some of the most prevalent hearing loss symptoms:
- Tiredness and headaches: Often, when you have hearing loss, your brain fights to keep up. It’s like you’re continuously squinting with your ears as your brain works overtime attempting to process sound. This can lead to chronic headaches and tiredness.
- Needing people to repeat what they just said: You’re often needing people to repeat what they said. Even if you feel like people are talking quietly, it’s actually hearing loss that’s the problem. If you start to encounter a great many people who “mumble,” it may be your ears that are the problem.
- The continual need to crank the volume up: Is your television volume constantly going up? Well, that’s an indicator of hearing loss. This one is frequently missed because it develops slowly over a long period of time.
- Having a difficult time hearing when it’s loud: When you’re out at dinner with family and friends, you have a difficult time following along with discussions. This is usually a pretty reliable indication that some degree of hearing loss could be occurring.
Naturally, these symptoms aren’t necessarily the only symptoms of hearing loss. Everybody’s hearing loss experience is unique. But if you are noticing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to visit us to get a diagnosis.
Why is a diagnosis useful?
So, you have hearing loss symptoms. Maybe you should go out to your local box-store and purchase an over-the-counter hearing aid. Well, that would be kind of like purchasing some corrective glasses without determining your prescription. In most circumstances, it will be essential to have a strong understanding of the precise nature of your condition.
Everyone’s experience of hearing loss is distinct and complex. It’s not as though somebody simply turns the volume knob in your ear. Actually, people tend to lose their hearing in particular frequency ranges as the stereocilia in the ear get damaged.
And most individuals don’t even notice it. 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 might not even realize you have. You’ll also have the opportunity to properly diagnose which frequencies are fading the quickest (and be better capable of managing your symptoms because of this.)
Visiting a hearing specialist has its advantages
When you go and purchase a hearing aid off the shelf, you’ll be doing the best you can to match what’s available on the shelf with what you need.
But your hearing aids can be calibrated to your specific hearing needs if you consult with a hearing specialist. Your hearing specialist can help you select the best device for your symptoms and then tailor that device specifically for the wavelengths you need help with.
Here are a few other benefits to seeing a hearing specialist:
- Programing your hearing aid more successfully is also something your hearing specialist can also help you with. So that you can get the best experience from your hearing aid, this is essential.
- Your hearing specialist can help you set up the appropriate maintenance for your hearing aid, making sure that your devices last for as long as possible.
- The ability to help you individualize the overall fit of your hearing aid, making sure your devices are comfortable and work properly.
- Your hearing specialist will help you comprehend how to get the most out of your hearing aids if you’re having difficulty understanding how to best utilize them.
Even if you get lucky enough to select 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 strategy, 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 relationships. And for the majority of people, that’s one of the most important parts of life.
Not everything has to be DIY
Getting help with your hearing aid doesn’t mean you are somehow less self-sufficient. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Your self-sufficiency and independence will be increased by using the correct hearing aids.
A hearing specialist can help you diagnose your hearing loss, regulate your symptoms, and select the correct device for your requirements.
In other words, if you suspect you have hearing loss, it’s time to contact us!
