Approximately 15% of American adults report some trouble hearing. You may sometimes wonder how much hearing loss is too much and when you should seek out a hearing test. Nearly 28.8 million adults could benefit from the use of hearing aids, and hearing aids are a helpful tool in improving the overall quality of life for those who need them. So, if you’re struggling to hear conversations in Main Street Diner, there may be some thoughts to consider.
Signs You May Need A Test
It can be hard to understand when you need a hearing test, but you may have some personal experiences leading you to conclude your hearing isn’t how it should be. Listen to your instincts and talk to your hearing specialist if you’ve experienced any of these symptoms:
Signs you may need a hearing test:
- You’re suspicious you have hearing loss
- You struggle to hear conversations and need others to repeat themselves, even in noisy settings
- You have to turn up the volume on the TV or while listening to music
- You’re experiencing tinnitus (ringing or buzzing) in one or both ears
- Others are telling you to get your hearing tested
These are a few times you should consider getting a hearing test. If you’re experiencing hearing loss, you may leave social situations feeling tired or stressed, so understanding the symptoms of hearing loss can help you make beneficial decisions.
Monitoring Your Hearing
There are other times when it may be necessary to seek out a hearing test. If you have already been diagnosed with hearing loss, it’s essential to get it checked routinely, as agreed upon by you and your hearing specialist. Hearing can decline over time, so it’s important to monitor.
Additionally, if you have hearing aids, they may become outdated due to technological advancements or changes in your hearing. It’s important to get routine hearing tests to ensure the hearing aids are working optimally for you.
If you aren’t experiencing symptoms of hearing loss, your hearing specialist may use a hearing screening to determine if you need a hearing test. A hearing screening is simpler than a test and is often in the form of a questionnaire. During a hearing test, you will sit in a sound-treated booth and have your hearing levels measured and plotted on an audiogram.
If you think you may need a hearing test or have questions about your hearing, contact a hearing specialist at Midwest ENT Centre.