Individuals are more self-dependent than ever. Does your car require some repairs? Simply watch that YouTube video. Is your sink clogged? YouTube video. Trying to learn cursive writing? YouTube… look, you get the point.
Anything you want to know, you can find, and there’s amazing potential to teach and educate yourself on the Internet. So the real question is, are we done needing professionals?
Not always. Take, for example, your hearing aids. Let’s picture that you develop a need for these useful little devices. Should you run out to Walmart and get a pair of over-the-counter hearing aids? It sounds fairly effortless (and gives you the impression of self-sufficiency), but there are some 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 symptoms of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss may appear to be clear-cut, even obvious. You can’t hear as well, right? While that may sometimes be the truth, in other circumstances the symptoms can be less apparent. Certainly, people frequently miss the signs of hearing loss because they don’t know what to look for.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of hearing loss include the following:
- Problems hearing conversations in loud places: When you’re out at dinner with family and friends, you have a tough time following along with discussions. You should definitely pay attention if you observe this symptom because it’s a rather strong indication of hearing loss.
- Having to continually crank up the volume: Are you constantly turning the volume up on your television? Well, that’s an indicator of hearing loss. This is one of the more evident ones, but it tends to develop so gradually that it’s usually missed.
- Headaches and fatigue: Your brain frequently has to work overtime as it struggles to process sound. It’s having to work much harder to process information, it’s like squinting constantly, but with your ears. This can result in chronic headaches and tiredness.
- Needing people to repeat what they just said: You might frequently ask people to repeat themselves. Even if you feel as if people are talking quietly, it’s actually hearing loss that’s the problem. You should consider whether it’s a problem with your ears if lots of people start to sound like their “mumbling”.
Obviously, there are other signs of hearing loss besides these. Everyone’s hearing loss experience is distinctive. 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 helpful?
So, you are recognizing that you are unable to hear as well as you used to. Why not just go to the store and buy an over-the-counter hearing aid? Well, would you go out and buy prescription glasses without getting an eye exam? In most circumstances, it will be essential to have a strong understanding of the exact nature of your condition.
That’s because hearing loss is a complex condition. It’s not like the volume in your ear is simply turned down. Actually, individuals tend to lose their hearing in particular frequency ranges as the stereocilia in the ear become damaged.
And it often goes unnoticed. The brain is quite good at compensating for these things. For this reason, it’s usually necessary to get a hearing examination. This screening process can help you uncover hearing loss you might not even realize you have. You’ll also have the chance to correctly diagnose which frequencies are fading the fastest (and as a result, you will be in a better position to control symptoms.)
Seeing a hearing specialist has its advantages
Matching your hearing requirements to the available selection on the shelf will be something you’ll need 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 requirements. We will help you choose the ideal device for your needs and we will calibrate it to boost the specific frequency that you’re having difficulty hearing.
Here are a few other benefits to seeing a hearing specialist:
- Your hearing specialist will help you understand how to get the most out of your hearing aids if you’re having trouble understanding how to best use them.
- The ability to help you customize the general fit of your hearing aid, making sure your devices are comfortable and work properly.
- Your hearing specialist can make sure that your hearing aids last as long as possible by helping you understand and plan proper upkeep and maintenance.
- Programing your hearing aid more effectively 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.
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 ideal.
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 a lot less likely if you take the correct approach. You’ll be able to keep those connections. And for the majority of individuals, that’s one of the most significant parts of life.
Not everything has to be DIY
It doesn’t mean you’re less self-sufficient simply because you need some assistance with hearing aids. Quite the opposite, actually. The right hearing aid can increase your independence and self-sufficiency.
A hearing specialist can help you diagnose your hearing loss, regulate your symptoms, and select the correct device for your needs.
So contact us so that we can help you address your hearing loss.
