Individuals are more self-reliant than ever. Want to fix up your car? 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? YouTube… look, you get the point.
Anything you want to know, you can find, and there’s great potential to teach and educate yourself on the Internet. So the real question is, are we done needing professionals?
Well, not exactly. Hearing aids are a good example. Let’s envision that you develop a need for these beneficial little devices. Does that mean you should just go out to the local pharmacy 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 a few considerable drawbacks. Actually, your hearing aids will be more comfortable and reliable if you come in to get a consultation with us.
What are the signs of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss might appear to be clear-cut, even obvious. Things become more difficult to hear, right? Well, yes, but the presentations of hearing loss can be a lot more diverse, and far less apparent. Certainly, individuals frequently miss the symptoms of hearing loss because they’re unsure about what to look for.
Here are some of the most prevalent hearing loss symptoms:
- Needing people to repeat what they said: You might frequently 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 an issue with your ears if lots of people start to sound like their “mumbling”.
- Difficulty hearing conversations in loud places: Do you have a tough time keeping up with discussions when you go out to eat with family or friends? You should certainly pay attention if you detect this symptom because it’s a pretty powerful indication of hearing loss.
- The persistent need to crank the volume up: Is the volume on your television constantly going up? Well, that’s a sign of hearing loss. This one is frequently missed because it progresses gradually over a long time period.
- Headaches and tiredness: 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 all the time, but with your ears. This can result in chronic headaches and fatigue.
Obviously, there are other signs of hearing loss besides these. Everybody’s experience will be slightly different. But if you are noticing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to visit us to get a diagnosis.
Can a diagnosis be helpful?
So, you are realizing that you are unable to hear as well as you once did. Why not just go to the store and purchase an over-the-counter hearing aid? Well, that would be kind of like buying some corrective glasses without determining your prescription. It may work in some cases. But knowing more about your condition is definitely essential.
Everybody’s experience of hearing loss is unique and complex. It’s not like the volume in your ear is merely turned down. Actually, individuals tend to lose their hearing in specific frequency ranges as the stereocilia in the ear become damaged.
And most individuals don’t even detect it. Compensating for these types of changes is something that the brain is very good at. Because of this, it’s typically necessary to get a hearing examination. You may not even recognize you have hearing loss but a hearing examination can expose any you may have. You’ll also have the chance to accurately diagnose which frequencies tend to be fading the quickest (and be better capable of managing your symptoms because of this.)
Seeing a hearing specialist has its benefits
When you go and buy a hearing aid off the shelf, you’ll be doing the best you can to match what’s available on the shelf with what you need.
But when you go see a hearing specialist, your hearing aids can be customized to your requirements. Your hearing specialist can help you choose the best device for your symptoms and then tailor that device specifically for the wavelengths you need help with.
Here are a few other benefits to seeing a hearing specialist:
- When you have difficulty using or comprehending how to use your hearing aid, your hearing specialist can help walk you through the process and make sure you understand how to get the most out of your devices.
- Confidence, that your device will be comfortable by getting a professional fitting.
- Your hearing specialist can also help you understand how to adjust your hearing aid effectively. So that you can get the best experience from your hearing aid, this is essential.
- Your hearing specialist can help you plan the necessary maintenance for your hearing aid, ensuring that your devices last for as long as possible.
Even if you get lucky enough to pick the best hearing aids for you, if don’t have the benefit of a hearing specialist, your hearing experience will probably be less than optimal.
You will also be better capable of managing your hearing loss symptoms with the assistance of a hearing specialist. With the correct approach, you’ll be much less likely to lose friends or become distant with family on account of your hearing loss symptoms. Those relationships will be maintained. And that can be exceptionally important.
Everything doesn’t always have 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 right 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 correct device for your requirements.
So contact us so that we can help you address your hearing loss.