Individuals are more self-dependent than ever. Want to fix up your car? You can learn how to do that by watching a YouTube video. Is your sink clogged? YouTube video. Trying to learn cursive writing? YouTube… look, you get the idea.
You can find any information you might want to learn and self-learning has never been more accessible. Does that mean you’ll never need a professional ever again?
Not always. Take, for instance, your hearing aids. Imagine if you notice some hearing loss and find yourself in need of these practical little devices. Does that mean you should just go out to the local pharmacy and grab 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 considerable drawbacks. As a matter of fact, going to see a hearing specialist for hearing aids can help make your hearing aids more reliable and more comfortable.
What are the symptoms of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss may appear to be clear-cut, even obvious. You are unable to hear as well, right? Well, yes, but the symptoms of hearing loss can be much more variable, and much less obvious. In many cases, we are unaware of what to watch out for and we miss the signs of hearing loss.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of hearing loss include the following:
- Asking people to repeat themselves: You might frequently ask people to repeat themselves. This is a sign of hearing loss, even if it feels like the volume is the issue. If you start to experience a great number of people who “mumble,” it may be your ears that are the issue.
- Trouble hearing conversations in loud settings: Do you have a hard time keeping up with discussions when you go out to dinner with friends or family? You should certainly pay attention if you detect this symptom because it’s a fairly strong sign of hearing loss.
- Fatigue and headaches: Your brain frequently has to work extra hard as it struggles to process sound. It’s having to work much harder to process information, it’s like squinting all the time, but with your ears. Exhaustion and chronic headaches can be the result.
- Having to constantly crank the volume up: Is the volume on your television constantly going up? Well, there’s your first common symptom. This is one of the more obvious ones, but it tends to develop so gradually that it’s often missed.
Obviously, there are other signs of hearing loss besides these. Everyone’s experience will be a bit different. But you should absolutely come see us for an assessment if you are noticing any of these symptoms.
Can a diagnosis be useful?
So, you have hearing loss symptoms. Why not simply go to the store and purchase an over-the-counter hearing aid? Well, would you go out and buy prescription glasses without getting an eye exam? In the majority of circumstances, it will be crucial 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 just turns the volume knob in your ear. Instead, as stereocilia in your ear get damaged, you tend to 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 it often goes undetected. The brain is very good at compensating for these things. That’s why a hearing exam is often needed. You may not even know you have hearing loss but a hearing assessment can uncover any you might have. This will also help you understand which frequencies you’re beginning to lose (and because of this, you will be in a better position to manage symptoms.)
Seeing a hearing specialist has its benefits
When you go and purchase 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 particular 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 assistance with.
Your hearing specialist will also have the following advantages:
- Programing your hearing aid more effectively is also something your hearing specialist can also assist you with. This is crucial to a quality experience with your devices.
- 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 individualize the overall fit of your hearing aid, making sure your devices are comfortable and work properly.
- Your hearing specialist can help you comprehend how to get the most out of your hearing aids if you’re having trouble 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 ideal.
Additionally, hearing specialists will be able to help you control your hearing loss symptoms. Losing touch with friends and family due to hearing loss will be a lot less likely if you take the right approach. You’ll be able to keep those connections. And for most people, that’s one of the most important parts of life.
Not everything has to be DIY
It doesn’t mean you’re less self-sufficient just because you need some help with hearing aids. As a matter of fact, it’s just the opposite. Your self-sufficiency and independence will be increased by using the right hearing aids.
Diagnosing your hearing loss, managing your symptoms, and choosing the correct hearing aids are all things that your hearing specialist will help you do.
In other words, if you suspect you have hearing loss, it’s time to call us!