People are more self-dependent than ever. Want to remodel your kitchen? You can learn how to do that by watching a YouTube video. Want to unclog your sink? Again with the YouTube. Want to learn how to do calligraphy? Yup…you guessed it…..YouTube.
You can discover any information you may want to learn and self-learning has never been more available. So the real question is, are we done needing professionals?
Not always. Take, for instance, your hearing aids. Let’s picture that you develop a need for these handy little devices. Should you race out to Walmart and pick up a pair of over-the-counter hearing aids? Although this might make you feel self-sufficient and sound like the easy solution, there are a few real disadvantages. In reality, your hearing aids will be more comfortable and effective if you come in to get a consultation with us.
What are the signs of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss might seem straightforward, even obvious. You can’t hear as well, right? Well, yes, but the presentations of hearing loss can be much more diverse, and far less apparent. In many cases, we don’t know what to look for and we miss the signs of hearing loss.
Some of the most common symptoms of hearing loss include the following:
- Fatigue and headaches: Your brain frequently has to work overtime as it struggles to process sound. It needs to work extra hard to process information, it’s like squinting constantly, but with your ears. Exhaustion and chronic headaches can be the result.
- Asking people to repeat themselves: You might often ask people to repeat themselves. Even if it seems like people are speaking quietly, it’s actually hearing loss that’s the issue. You should consider whether it’s a problem with your ears if lots of people start to seem like their “mumbling”.
- Trouble hearing conversations in loud settings: Do you have a hard time following discussions when you go out to eat with family or friends? This is normally a rather reliable sign that some degree of hearing loss may be occurring.
- Having to constantly crank up the volume: Is the volume on your television constantly going up? Well, there’s your first common sign. This is one of the more evident ones, but it tends to progress so slowly that it’s usually missed.
Obviously, there are other symptoms of hearing loss besides these. Everybody’s experience will be a bit different. But you should certainly come see us for an assessment if you are detecting any of these symptoms.
Can a diagnosis be useful?
So, you are realizing that you are unable to hear as well as you used to. Perhaps you should go out to your local box-store and purchase an over-the-counter hearing aid. Well, would you go out and purchase prescription glasses without getting an eye exam? It may work in some cases. But knowing more about your condition is really essential.
That’s because hearing loss is a complex condition. It’s not like someone simply turns the volume knob in your ear. Instead, as stereocilia in your ear become damaged, you tend to lose your hearing in parts at a time, that is, you usually lose the ability to hear high-frequency or low-frequency sounds first.
And most individuals 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. This screening process can help you expose hearing loss you may not even realize you have. You’ll also have the opportunity to correctly diagnose which frequencies tend to be fading the fastest (and be better capable of managing your symptoms because of this.)
Advantages of working with a hearing specialist
Matching your hearing needs to the available selection on the shelf will be something you’ll have to do by yourself if you decide on over-the-counter hearing aids.
But when you go see a hearing specialist, your hearing aids can be tailored to your needs. Your hearing specialist can help you pick the best device for your symptoms and then customize that device specifically for the frequency you need help with.
Here are a few other advantages to seeing a hearing specialist:
- Your hearing specialist can also help you understand how to program your hearing aid successfully. So that you can get the best experience from your hearing aid, this is essential.
- When you have problems using or understanding how to use your hearing aid, your hearing specialist can help walk you through the process and be certain that you comprehend how to get the most out of your devices.
- Your hearing specialist can ensure that your hearing aids last as long as possible by helping you comprehend and plan correct upkeep and maintenance.
- The ability to help you individualize the overall fit of your hearing aid, ensuring your devices are comfortable and effectively working.
Without the benefit of a hearing specialist, your hearing aid experience will likely be less ideal, even if you do happen to pick the best possible over-the-counter hearing aid for your symptoms.
Additionally, hearing specialists will be able to help you manage your hearing loss symptoms. With the right approach, you’ll be much less likely to lose touch with friends or become distant with family on account of your hearing loss symptoms. You’ll be able to keep those relationships. And that can be exceedingly important.
Not everything has to be DIY
Seeking help with your hearing aid doesn’t mean you are somehow less self-sufficient. In fact, it’s just the opposite. The correct hearing aid can improve your independence and self-sufficiency.
A hearing specialist can help you diagnose your hearing loss, control your symptoms, and select the right device for your needs.
In other words, if you think you have hearing loss, it’s time to call us!
