People are becoming self-dependent more than ever before. Does your car require some repairs? 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 find any information you might want to learn and self-learning has never been more accessible. Does that mean you’ll never require an expert ever again?
Not always. Hearing aids are a practical example. Let’s imagine that you develop a need for these useful 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 impression of self-sufficiency), but there are a few considerable drawbacks. Actually, your hearing aids will be more comfortable and reliable if you come in to get a consultation with us.
Hearing loss signs
You may think that hearing loss symptoms are fairly self-evident. You can’t hear as well, right? Well, yes, but the presentations of hearing loss can be much more variable, and much less apparent. In many cases, we don’t know what to watch out for and we miss the signs of hearing loss.
Here are some of the most prevalent hearing loss symptoms:
- Having a difficult time hearing when it’s loud: Do you have a tough time keeping up with discussions when you go out to eat with friends or family? You should certainly pay attention if you notice this symptom because it’s a fairly strong indication of hearing loss.
- Needing people to repeat what they just said: You might often ask people to repeat themselves. Even if you feel like people are talking 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”.
- Fatigue and headaches: Often, when you have hearing loss, your brain struggles to keep up. It’s like you’re constantly squinting with your ears as your brain works overtime attempting to process sound. Exhaustion and chronic headaches can be the outcome.
- The persistent need to crank the volume up: Is the volume on your television continuously going up? Well, that’s a sign of hearing loss. This is one of the more evident ones, but it tends to develop so gradually that it’s usually missed.
Needless to say, these symptoms aren’t always the only symptoms of hearing loss. Everybody’s hearing loss experience is unique. 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 useful?
So, you are recognizing that you are unable to hear as well as you once did. 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 having an eye exam? It may work sometimes. But understanding more about your condition is really essential.
That’s because hearing loss is a complex issue. It’s not like somebody just turns the volume knob in your ear. Instead, as stereocilia inside of 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 frequently goes unnoticed. Compensating for these kinds of changes is something that the brain is extremely good at. That’s why a hearing exam is typically required. This screening process can help you expose hearing loss you may not even realize you have. This will also help you understand which frequencies you’re beginning to lose (and as a result, you will be in a better position to control symptoms.)
Visiting a hearing specialist has its advantages
Matching your hearing requirements to the available selection on the shelf will be something you’ll have to do by yourself if you go with over-the-counter hearing aids.
But when you visit a hearing specialist, your hearing aids can be customized to your requirements. We will help you pick the ideal device for your needs and we will tune it to boost the specific frequency that you’re having trouble hearing.
Here are a few other benefits to seeing a hearing specialist:
- When you have problems using or understanding how to use your hearing aid, your hearing specialist can help take you step-by-step through the process and be certain that you comprehend how to get the most out of your devices.
- Adjusting your hearing aid more effectively is also something your hearing specialist can also help you with. This is critical to a good experience with your devices.
- Confidence, that your device will be comfortable by getting a professional fitting.
- Your hearing specialist can help you plan the appropriate maintenance for your hearing aid, ensuring that your devices last for as long as possible.
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.
In addition, hearing specialists will be able to help you control your hearing loss symptoms. With the right approach, you’ll be much less likely to lose touch with friends or become isolated from your family because of your hearing loss symptoms. You’ll be able to maintain those relationships. And for most people, that’s one of the most worthwhile 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. Your self-sufficiency and independence will be enhanced by using the correct hearing aids.
A hearing specialist can help you diagnose your hearing loss, regulate your symptoms, and pick out the correct device for your needs.
In other words, if you suspect you have hearing loss, it’s time to call us!