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 get your hearing tested. And perhaps you believe it can wait because you don’t believe you’re afflicted by hearing loss.
You shouldn’t wait – here’s why:
1. Further Hearing Loss Can be Avoided
Because hearing loss often progresses gradually, many individuals don’t realize how bad it has become. Over time, without even noticing it, they begin compensating and making changes to their lifestyle. And because they don’t know they have hearing loss, they continue to engage in activities that make their hearing loss worse.
But knowing is half the battle.
Having your hearing examined can be eye-opening. There isn’t any way to reverse any hearing loss you might have already suffered, but you can slow its advancement.
It will be helpful to know how to keep your moderate hearing loss from worsening.
The progression of hearing loss can be slowed by more effectively controlling chronic disease, decreasing your blood pressure, and exercising more.
Your ears will be protected from further damage by using ear protection when exposed to loud sounds and reducing your exposure.
2. You’re Missing More Than You Realize
You may have gradually forgotten your appreciation for music if you’ve been experiencing moderate hearing loss. Not needing to ask friends and family to repeat what they said when they talk to you is something you may not even recall.
You might find yourself getting further away from doing your favorite activities and spending time with friends.
You can find out just how much hearing loss you have by getting a hearing test. In the majority of situations, we can help you hear better.
3. You Might Improve Your Hearing Aid Experience
Maybe you already use hearing aids but you really don’t like to wear them. You might not think they help very much. Getting your hearing retested by a hearing specialist will help you learn if you have the correct hearing aid for your type and degree of hearing loss and whether it’s effectively adjusted.
4. You May be at Risk Already
Measurable hearing loss can be found in both ears in 13% of U.S. citizens (30 million individuals) 12 and older. And debilitating hearing loss is experienced by 8.5% of adults between 55 and 64. Hearing loss is usually due to environmental factors. It isn’t simply about aging. The majority of it is caused by exposure to loud sound.
If you participate in the following things, you’re at a higher risk:
- Mow the lawn
- Shoot firearms
- Ride a motorcycle or snowmobile
- Work at a loud job
- Listen to loud music or wear earbuds
- Attend concerts, plays, or movies
Every one of these everyday activities can trigger hearing loss. If you see a decline in your hearing at any age, you should have your hearing checked by a hearing specialist as soon as you can.
5. Your General Health Will Improve
People with neglected hearing loss have a substantially higher chance of:
- Dementia/Alzheimer’s
- Social isolation (preferring to be alone)
- Longer treatments in hospitals and rehab
- Slow healing or frequent hospital admissions
- Depression
- Missing or skipping doctor appointments
- Anxiety
- Falls that cause injuries
Getting your hearing tested is about more than just your hearing.
6. Strained Relationships Can be Restored
Friends and family members can lose their patience when addressing somebody who has ignored their hearing loss. It’s more common for misunderstandings to occur. The situation is frustrating for everyone. Resentment and regret could follow. Rather than constantly needing to repeat what they said, family and friends may begin to exclude you from get-togethers.
But misunderstandings and stressed relationships can be prevented by getting a hearing test and that’s the good news.