From preparing meals to our jobs to social events – our lives are busy and hectic. It probably seems like there’s not enough time to have your hearing examined. And perhaps you don’t even recognize any hearing loss – so you think a hearing test can wait.
You shouldn’t put it off – here’s why:
1. Further Hearing Loss Can be Prevented
Because hearing loss normally advances gradually, many people don’t recognize how bad it’s become. Over time, they start compensating and changing their lifestyle without realizing it. All the while, they continue to do things to make their hearing loss worse.
But knowledge is power.
Getting your hearing examined can be eye-opening. There isn’t any way to reverse any hearing loss you may already have, but you can slow its progression.
If you are suffering from moderate hearing loss, you will want to find out how to keep it from getting worse.
The advancement of hearing loss can be slowed by more efficiently controlling chronic disease, lowering your blood pressure, and exercising more.
Your ears will be safeguarded from further harm by wearing ear protection when exposed to loud sounds and limiting your exposure.
2. You Don’t Even Realize How Much You’re Missing
You might have gradually forgotten your appreciation for music if you’ve been experiencing moderate hearing loss. Not needing to ask family and friends to repeat themselves when they talk to you is something you may not even recall.
You might have slowly distanced yourself from friends or your favorite experiences.
Getting a hearing exam allows you to assess your level of hearing loss. In the majority of situations, we can help you hear better.
3. You Might Enhance Your Hearing Aid Experience
Perhaps you already have hearing aids but you really don’t like to use them. You may not feel like it enhances your listening experience. Going to a hearing specialist and getting your hearing re-examined will ensure you have the hearing aids that work best for you and that they are adjusted for your individual listening requirements.
4. You Might be at Risk Already
Thirteen percent of people 12 and older in the U.S. (30 million people) have measurable hearing loss in both ears. Among adults ages 55 to 64, 8.5% are experiencing debilitating hearing loss. Environmental factors are usually to blame. It’s not simply about getting old. Exposure to loud noise causes the majority of it.
If you are involved in the following activities, you’re at a greater risk:
- Use a motorized lawnmower
- Go to plays, movies, and concerts
- Hunt or practice shooting with firearms
- Turn your headphones or earbuds up too loud
- Ride loud vehicles such as a snowmobile, ATV, or motorcycle
- Have a loud job
Hearing loss can be a consequence of any of these ordinary activities. If you observe a decline in your hearing at any age, you should have your hearing examined by a hearing specialist as soon as possible.
5. It Will Improve Your Overall Health
Individuals with untreated hearing loss have a significantly higher risk of:
- Anxiety
- Missing or skipping doctor appointments
- Slow healing or repeated hospital admissions
- Social isolation (preferring to be alone)
- Longer treatments in hospitals and rehab
- Depression
- Alzheimer’s/dementia
- Falls that cause injuries
Having your hearing checked is about more than just your hearing.
6. Restore Strained Relationships
Neglected hearing loss can try the patience of your family members and friends. It’s more likely for misunderstandings to happen. Everyone will get aggravated with the situation, including you. Regret and resentment can be the result. Rather than constantly having to repeat what they said, family and friends may begin to exclude you from gatherings.
But misunderstandings and stressed relationships can be prevented by getting a hearing assessment and that’s the good news.