When should you schedule a hearing evaluation? Here are some indications you need to get your hearing checked.
Recently, my children expressed displeasure with the high volume of the TV. My answer …” What?!” It was meant to be funny. But it also wasn’t. The TV has been getting louder and louder. And I started to wonder: Should I get a hearing exam?
There aren’t many good reasons not to arrange a hearing exam. They’re not invasive, there’s no radiation, and you don’t have to be concerned about discomfort. Just take a quick moment to book an appointment.
Given the considerable effect that neglected hearing loss can have on your general well-being, it’s vital to be proactive about keeping an eye on your hearing.
Indications you should get a hearing test
If you’ve noticed any recent changes that might be indicative of hearing loss, scheduling a comprehensive hearing assessment with a professional is likely a wise decision. Obviously, if things are hard to hear, that’s a pretty solid indication of hearing loss.
- It’s difficult to hear in noisy locations: Have you ever been to a crowded or noisy room and had difficulty following the conversation because of all the background noise? It’s possible that this could be an indication of a loss of hearing.
- It sounds like everyone’s mumbling all the time: Sometimes it’s not loss of volume you need to be concerned about, it’s a loss of clarity.
- You’re always overlooking text messages: Your phone is designed to be loud. So, if you’re always missing calls or text messages, it might be because you aren’t hearing them.
- Ringing that won’t go away: Ringing in your ears, also called tinnitus, is typically a sign of hearing damage.
Other indications you should schedule a hearing test:
- Your ear hasn’t cleared after an infection
- Surplus earwax has amassed and can’t be eliminated by self-cleaning methods
- Medicines you’re taking might be damaging your hearing
- It is hard to determine the source of sounds
- You’re experiencing balance issues
Routine checkups
Even if you’re not experiencing any noticeable symptoms, it’s still significant to schedule regular hearing tests.
- It is encouraged to have a baseline test carried out after reaching the age of 21.
- For individuals with normal hearing, it’s advised to have a hearing test every three years.
- If you display symptoms of hearing loss, have it assessed immediately and then every year afterwards.
Regular screenings might detect hearing loss early, before any warning signs are obvious. The earlier you seek treatment, the better you’ll be able to preserve your hearing over time. This means you should probably turn your TV down and schedule a hearing test.