Individuals are becoming self-reliant more than ever before. Does your car require some repairs? Just watch that YouTube video. Want to unclog your sink? Again with the YouTube. Want to learn how to do calligraphy? Yup…you guessed it…..YouTube.
Anything you want to know, you can find, and there’s excellent potential to teach and educate yourself on the Internet. So the real question is, are we finished needing experts?
Not always. Take, for instance, your hearing aids. Let’s imagine that you develop a need for these useful little devices. Should you run out to Walmart and get a set of over-the-counter hearing aids? Although this might make you feel self-sufficient and sound like the convenient solution, there are a few real disadvantages. Actually, your hearing aids will be more comfortable and effective if you come in to get a consultation with us.
What are the symptoms of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss might appear to be straightforward, even obvious. You are unable to hear as well, right? While that might sometimes be the truth, in other circumstances the symptoms can be less apparent. In many situations, we don’t know what to look for and we miss the symptoms of hearing loss.
Here are some of the most prevalent hearing loss symptoms:
- Requesting that people repeat themselves: You’re frequently needing people to repeat what they said. Even if you feel like people are talking 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”.
- Problems hearing conversations in loud settings: Do you have a hard time following conversations when you go out to dinner with friends or family? You should certainly pay attention if you notice this symptom because it’s a rather strong sign of hearing loss.
- Having to continually turn up the volume: Are you always turning the volume up on your television? Well, that’s an indicator of hearing loss. This is one of the more apparent ones, but it tends to progress so gradually that it’s usually missed.
- Headaches and exhaustion: Your brain often has to work extra hard as it struggles to process sound. It’s like you’re continuously squinting with your ears as your brain works overtime attempting to process sound. Fatigue and chronic headaches can be the outcome.
Obviously, there are other symptoms of hearing loss besides these. Everyone’s hearing loss experience is distinctive. 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 have the symptoms of hearing loss. Why not just go to the store and purchase an over-the-counter hearing aid? Well, that would be sort of like buying some corrective glasses without knowing your prescription. In most situations, it will be crucial to have a strong understanding of the precise nature of your condition.
That’s because hearing loss is a complex problem. It’s not like somebody just turns the volume knob in your ear. Actually, individuals tend to lose their hearing in particular frequency ranges as the stereocilia in the ear get damaged.
And most people don’t even detect it. The brain is really good at compensating for these things. That’s why a hearing exam is often required. You may not even know you have hearing loss but a hearing examination can uncover any you might have. This will also help you understand which frequencies you’re starting to lose (and as a result, you will be in a better position to manage symptoms.)
Seeing a hearing specialist has its advantages
Matching your hearing requirements to the available selection on the shelf will be something you’ll have to do by yourself if you go with over-the-counter hearing aids.
But your hearing aids can be calibrated to your specific hearing needs if you consult with 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 assistance with.
Your hearing specialist will also have the following advantages:
- Your hearing specialist can also help you understand how to program your hearing aid properly. So that you can get the best experience from your hearing aid, this is essential.
- The ability to help you customize the general fit of your hearing aid, making sure your devices are comfortable and effectively working.
- Your hearing specialist can make sure that your hearing aids last as long as possible by helping you comprehend and plan appropriate upkeep and maintenance.
- Your hearing specialist will help you comprehend how to get the most out of your hearing aids if you’re having difficulty understanding how to best use them.
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 ideal.
Additionally, hearing specialists will be able to help you control your hearing loss symptoms. With the right approach, you’ll be much less likely to lose touch with friends or become isolated from your family because of your hearing loss symptoms. You’ll be able to maintain those connections. And that can be extremely important.
Not everything has to be DIY
Seeking help with your hearing aid doesn’t mean you are in some way less self-sufficient. In fact, it’s actually the opposite. The right hearing aid can improve your independence and self-sufficiency.
A hearing specialist can help you diagnose your hearing loss, manage your symptoms, and select the correct device for your needs.
So contact us so that we can help you address your hearing loss.