From preparing meals to our jobs to social events – our lives are busy and hectic. It probably seems like there’s never enough time to get your hearing evaluated. And perhaps you think it can wait because you don’t believe you’re afflicted by hearing loss.
You shouldn’t wait – here’s why:
1. Additional Hearing Loss Can be Avoided
Because hearing loss typically advances slowly, many people don’t realize how bad it’s become. Over time, without even noticing it, they start compensating and changing their lifestyle. All the while, they continue to do things to make their hearing loss worse.
But knowing is half the battle.
It can be an eye-opener to get your hearing checked. You can slow the progression of hearing loss but there isn’t any way to undo the damage already done.
It will be helpful to learn how to keep your moderate hearing loss from worsening.
Exercising, lowering your blood pressure, and managing chronic diseases more effectively can slow hearing loss advancement.
Your ears will be protected from further damage by using ear protection when exposed to loud noises and limiting your exposure.
2. You Don’t Even Realize How Much You’re Missing
If you are experiencing moderate hearing loss, you might have gradually forgotten how much you love listening to music. You may not recall what it’s like to have a discussion without asking friends or family members to repeat themselves.
You might find yourself getting further away from doing your favorite things and spending time with friends.
Having a hearing examination allows you to measure your level of hearing loss. In most situations, we can help make improvements to your hearing.
3. You May Make Your Current Hearing Aid Experience Better
If you already use a hearing aid, you might not want to use it. You may not feel like it enhances your listening experience. Going to a hearing specialist and getting your hearing re-analyzed will ensure you have the hearing aids that work best for you and that they’re set up for your personal listening needs.
4. It’s Possible That You’re At Risk Already
13% of people 12 and older in the U.S. (30 million people) have measurable hearing loss in both ears. And debilitating hearing loss is endured by 8.5% of adults 55 to64. Environmental factors are typically to blame. It isn’t simply about getting old. Exposure to loud sound causes the majority of it.
Your at an increased danger if you are engaged in any of these activities:
- Mow the lawn
- Listen to loud music or use earbuds
- Ride a snowmobile or motorcycle
- Have a noisy job
- Attend concerts, plays, or movies
- Shoot firearms
Hearing loss can be a consequence of any of these ordinary activities. You need to go have your hearing examined by a hearing professional as soon as you can if you detect a decline in your ability to hear regardless of what your age is.
5. Your Over-all Health Will Improve
People with untreated hearing loss have a significantly higher chance of:
- Missing or skipping doctor appointments
- Depression
- Falls that cause injuries
- Anxiety
- Slow healing or repeated hospital admissions
- Social isolation (preferring to be alone)
- Alzheimer’s/dementia
- Longer treatments in hospitals and rehab
A hearing test is not just about your hearing.
6. Repair Tense Relationships
Untreated hearing loss can try the patience of your friends and family members. It’s more common for misunderstandings to take place. People will become aggravated with the situation, including you. Regret and resentment can be the result. Family members and friends might even exclude you from get-togethers versus having to continuously repeat themselves.
But misunderstandings and stressed relationships can be prevented by getting a hearing test and that’s the good news.