Hearing loss affects millions of people each year, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to deal with. It can be deeply upsetting to lose a sense, and you may find it harder to communicate with people. Some people with hearing loss also feel a lot more vulnerable, especially if they can’t hear potential dangers like oncoming traffic.
So, if you’ve noticed that your hearing is getting worse, or your loved ones have commented on it, it’s important to get it checked out right away. Hearing loss can be dealt with, but just like any health condition, the sooner you get it sorted, the better.
Signs of Hearing Loss
The signs of hearing loss can differ depending on what caused it. Sudden hearing loss, for example, can be caused by an injury, earwax blockage, or an ear infection. You might wake up and find that you’re deaf in one ear. Understanding sudden hearing loss symptoms, like pain, pressure, dizziness, or ringing, will also help you get quick treatment. In many cases, the hearing loss can be treated and resolved.
But what about hearing loss that sneaks up on you? Our brains are amazing, and they can cover for a lot of things, including hearing loss. This means that you might not notice unless someone else mentions it to you.
You might also find that you turn the subtitles on (if you didn’t do so in the past) or turn the volume up on your devices. Or you may struggle with conversations, especially with multiple people.
Getting a Hearing Test
Once you suspect that you’re losing your hearing, it’s important to get a hearing test. Hearing tests are quick, painless, and non-invasive.
Typically, the audiologist will talk to you about your symptoms and your hearing first, then they will inspect your ears. A doctor can also perform a visual examination, and if you’ve got a blockage or another issue that can be dealt with, they might do that for you.
The hearing test itself involves putting on a pair of headphones and indicating when you hear specific sounds. It tests your hearing across different pitches and volumes, so you can work out the full extent of your hearing loss.
Potential Treatments
After your test, your audiologist will discuss the degree of your hearing loss and what you can do about it. Most permanent hearing loss is caused by wear and tear, with a sprinkle of genetics. So, older people, as well as people who are regularly exposed to loud noises like construction workers or musicians, are more likely to lose their hearing. Or, if your family members lost their hearing, you might be more prone to hearing loss as well.Your audiologist might recommend lifestyle changes to reduce future hearing loss, especially if it’s still minor. In some cases, a hearing aid might be the best option to help you hear more. While your hearing aid won’t restore it to exactly how it was before, it does make it easier to keep up in conversations and to be safe while you’re out and about.
The owners and authors of Cinnamon Hollow are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
