Hearing loss often develops gradually, and it may include more than one early sign. Even with multiple signals that hearing is fading, some men and women may ignore their initial symptoms. It’s important to know how to recognize the signs of hearing loss and schedule a hearing evaluation to determine if additional tests are needed. We encourage both children and adults to undergo routine hearing tests to ensure they get appropriate care.
In this post, we’ll describe the signs of hearing loss and the treatment options available.
Early Signs of Hearing Loss
Sometimes it can be difficult to recognize the early signs that you’re experiencing hearing loss. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Are you turning the volume up a bit while watching television?
- Are you asking people to repeat themselves more often?
- Do sounds seem muffled?
- Do your ears ring (tinnitus)?
- Do you feel drained after attending social events?
- Is it difficult to hear when there is background noise?
Answering yes to these questions are signals that may point to hearing loss. You can also review our Hearing Self-Assessment page for additional symptoms of hearing loss and an explanation of helpful devices.
Even people who notice hearing loss signs, however, may put off making an appointment with an audiologist because of the social stigma that remains associated with hearing loss—especially for younger adults. But scheduling a hearing test as soon as possible is important. We explain how often you should be tested for hearing loss in our related blog post.
Schedule a Hearing Evaluation
Our audiology specialists conduct routine hearing evaluations for patients of all ages, including children, adults, and the elderly. These quick and cost-effective evaluations can detect possible hearing issues, which may lead to additional tests to determine the specific type and extent of hearing loss. The additional hearing evaluations include:
- Speech audiometry
- QuickSIN (speech-in-noise) test
- Impedance tympanometry
- Otoacoustic emissions (OAE)
Based on the results of the tests administered, our specialists will discuss treatment options and the possibility of getting fitted for hearing aids.
Hearing Aid Fitting and Programming
Recent technological advances have revolutionized hearing aids. Digital hearing aids, which now represent the vast majority of devices used, can selectively amplify sounds and be re-programmed as a patient’s hearing changes. Once patients are fitted for hearing aids, our audiology providers instruct them on how to use and adjust them, offer some tips about having conversations while wearing the devices, and demonstrate how to clean and care for them.
Take the First Step
You don’t have to let hearing loss affect your social life and relationships. Having your hearing evaluated and addressed can help you feel more confident in social settings and connected to those around you. For a hearing evaluation with one of our audiology specialists, request a consultation using our online form or call us at (907) 279-8800 to schedule an appointment.