Individuals are more self-reliant than ever. Does your car require some repairs? You can learn how to do that by watching a YouTube video. Want to unclog your sink? YouTube video. Want to learn how to do calligraphy? Yup…you guessed it…..YouTube.
You can find any information you might want to learn and self-learning has never been more accessible. So the real question is, are we finished needing professionals?
Well, not necessarily. Take, for instance, your hearing aids. Imagine if you notice some hearing loss and find yourself in need of these helpful little devices. Should you race out to Walmart and pick up a set of over-the-counter hearing aids? Although this might make you feel like you’re being self-sufficient and sound like the easy solution, there are some real disadvantages. As a matter of fact, going to see a hearing specialist for hearing aids can help make your hearing aids more effective and more comfortable.
What are the symptoms of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss might seem straightforward, even obvious. Things get harder to hear, right? Well, yes, but the symptoms of hearing loss can be much more variable, and far less obvious. Certainly, individuals frequently miss the signs of hearing loss because they’re unsure about what to look for.
Here are a few of the most common hearing loss symptoms:
- The continual need to turn the volume up: Is the volume on your television continuously going up? Well, that’s an indicator of hearing loss. This is one of the more evident ones, but it tends to progress so gradually that it’s frequently missed.
- Needing people to repeat what they said: You may frequently ask people to repeat themselves. Even if it seems like people are speaking quietly, it’s actually hearing loss that’s the problem. You should consider whether it’s an issue with your ears if lots of individuals start to seem like their “mumbling”.
- Having a difficult time hearing when it’s loud: Do you have a tough time keeping up with discussions when you go out to eat with family or friends? This is typically a fairly dependable sign that some amount of hearing loss may be happening.
- Headaches and exhaustion: Often, when you have hearing loss, your brain struggles to keep up. It’s like you’re continuously squinting with your ears as your brain works extra hard attempting to process sound. Exhaustion and chronic headaches can be the result.
Clearly, there are other symptoms of hearing loss besides these. Everyone’s hearing loss experience is distinctive. But you should definitely come see us for a consultation if you are detecting any of these symptoms.
Why is a diagnosis useful?
So, you are recognizing that you can’t hear as well as you once did. Why not simply go to the store and purchase an over-the-counter hearing aid? Well, would you go out and buy prescription glasses without getting an eye exam? In most cases, it will be crucial to have a strong understanding of the exact nature of your condition.
Everybody’s experience of hearing loss is unique and complex. It’s not like somebody just turns the volume knob in your ear. Actually, people tend to lose their hearing in particular frequency ranges as the stereocilia in the ear get damaged.
And most people don’t even notice it. The brain is very good at compensating for these things. That’s why a hearing test is typically essential. This screening process can help you discover hearing loss you might not even know you have. You’ll also have the chance to accurately diagnose which frequencies tend to be fading the quickest (and because of this, you will be in a better position to control symptoms.)
Seeing a hearing specialist has its benefits
When you go and buy a hearing aid at the store, you’ll be doing your best to match what’s available on the shelf with what you require.
But your hearing aids can be calibrated to your particular hearing needs if you go to a hearing specialist. Your hearing specialist can help you pick the best device for your symptoms and then customize that device specifically for the wavelengths you need help with.
Your hearing specialist will also have the following benefits:
- Confidence, that your device will be comfortable by getting a professional fitting.
- Your hearing specialist can help you understand how to get the most out of your hearing aids if you’re having difficulty understanding how to best use them.
- Programing your hearing aid more successfully is also something your hearing specialist can also assist you with. In order to get the best experience from your hearing aid, this is crucial.
- Your hearing specialist can help you set up the necessary maintenance for your hearing aid, making sure that your devices last for as long as possible.
Without the advantage of a hearing specialist, your hearing aid experience will most likely be less optimal, even if you do happen to select the best possible over-the-counter hearing aid for your symptoms.
Also, hearing specialists will be able to help you manage your hearing loss symptoms. Feeling isolated from family and friends due to hearing loss will be much less likely if you take the correct approach. You’ll be able to maintain those relationships. And that can be exceedingly important.
Not everything has to be DIY
Getting help with your hearing aid doesn’t mean you are in some way less self-sufficient. In fact, it’s just the opposite. The right hearing aid can increase your independence and self-sufficiency.
A hearing specialist can help you diagnose your hearing loss, regulate your symptoms, and pick out the right device for your needs.
So call us so that we can help you address your hearing loss.