Individuals are more self-dependent than ever. Does your car require some repairs? Just watch that YouTube video. Want to unclog your sink? YouTube video. Want to learn how to do calligraphy? YouTube… look, you get the idea.
You can find any information you might want to know and self-learning has never been more accessible. So the real question is, are we done needing professionals?
Not always. Hearing aids are a good example. Let’s picture that you develop a need for these useful little devices. Does that mean you should just drive up to the local pharmacy and get a pair of over-the-counter hearing aids? It sounds nice and easy (and gives you the illusion of self-sufficiency), but there are a few 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 might appear to be straightforward, even obvious. Things become more difficult to hear, right? While that may sometimes be the case, in other circumstances the symptoms can be less obvious. In many cases, we are unaware of what to watch out for and we miss the signs of hearing loss.
Here are a few of the most prevalent hearing loss symptoms:
- Asking people to repeat themselves: You may frequently ask people to repeat themselves. Even if you feel as if people are speaking quietly, it’s actually hearing loss that’s the issue. If you start to encounter a great number of individuals who “mumble,” it may be your ears that are the problem.
- Trouble hearing conversations in noisy settings: Do you have a difficult time following discussions when you go out to eat with friends or family? You should certainly pay attention if you observe this symptom because it’s a fairly strong sign of hearing loss.
- The constant need to crank the volume up: Is the volume on your television constantly going up? Well, there’s your first common sign. This one is frequently missed because it develops gradually over a long time period.
- Tiredness and headaches: Your brain often has to work extra hard as it struggles to process sound. It’s like you’re continuously squinting with your ears as your brain works overtime attempting to process sound. This can trigger chronic headaches and fatigue.
Naturally, these symptoms are not necessarily the only signs of hearing loss. Everybody’s hearing loss experience is unique. But you should certainly come see us for an assessment if you are noticing any of these symptoms.
Can a diagnosis be useful?
So, you are realizing that you can’t hear as well as you used to. Why not just go to the store and purchase an over-the-counter hearing aid? Well, would you go out and purchase prescription glasses without having an eye exam? It may work sometimes. But knowing more about your condition is really indispensable.
That’s because hearing loss is a complex issue. It’s not as though somebody simply turns the volume knob in your ear. Instead, as stereocilia in your ear get damaged, you often lose your hearing in parts at a time, that is, you normally lose the ability to hear high-frequency or low-frequency sounds first.
And most people don’t even detect it. The brain is really good at compensating for these things. Because of this, it’s usually necessary to get a hearing test. You may not even recognize you have hearing loss but a hearing test can expose any you might have. You’ll also have the opportunity to accurately diagnose which frequencies tend to be fading the quickest (and as a result, you will be in a better position to manage symptoms.)
Visiting a hearing specialist has its advantages
When you go and buy a hearing aid off the shelf, you’ll be doing your best to match what’s available on the shelf with what you require.
But your hearing aids can be fine-tuned to your specific hearing needs if you go to a hearing specialist. Your hearing specialist can help you choose the best device for your symptoms and then customize that device specifically for the frequency you need help with.
Your hearing specialist will also have the following advantages:
- When you have difficulty using or understanding how to use your hearing aid, your hearing specialist can help take you step-by-step through the process and make sure you comprehend how to get the most out of your devices.
- Programing your hearing aid more successfully is also something your hearing specialist can also assist 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 necessary maintenance for your hearing aid, ensuring that your devices last for as long as possible.
- The ability to help you customize the general fit of your hearing aid, ensuring your devices are comfortable and work effectively.
Even if you get lucky enough to select the best hearing aids for you, if don’t have the advantage 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 assistance of a hearing specialist. Losing touch with friends and family because of hearing loss will be much less likely if you take the correct approach. You’ll be able to maintain those relationships. And for most individuals, that’s one of the most worthwhile parts of life.
Not everything has to be DIY
Seeking help with your hearing aid doesn’t mean you are somehow less self-sufficient. Quite the opposite, actually. The right hearing aid can increase your independence and self-sufficiency.
Diagnosing your hearing loss, controlling your symptoms, and selecting the right hearing aids are all things that your hearing specialist will help you do.
In other words, if you think you have hearing loss, it’s time to give us a call!
