Spring is often a time of renewal and fresh starts, inspiring things such as spring cleaning. It can also be a time to make new goals and habits for yourself, such as getting in shape for summer and vacations.
One important health aspect that is often overlooked is our hearing. Hearing loss is losing moments with your loved ones. Losing conversations, losing interactions, losing words, and losing the relationship. If you are experiencing difficulty hearing, consider a fresh start by addressing your hearing loss.
Addressing your hearing loss can give you your life back-and give you back to your loved ones.
The first step to monitoring and addressing your hearing health is to have a hearing test. This should be done annually, just as you would a physical. It actually takes less time and is not intrusive.
Having your hearing checked should be routine, and an annual check is recommended if you are over the age of 60, work in noisy conditions, or are frequently exposed to loud noises and environments.
The hearing test itself is a simple 20 minute test and you will have your results before you go home. Most comprehensive hearing tests include a minimum of five basic components:
- Questions about your hearing and general health
It’s important to understand any issues that can affect your hearing, such as genetic factors or other medical conditions like ear infections, allergies, or past head traumas.
- An otoscopic exam
This involves a look at your ear canal and eardrum with a special magnifying light called an otoscope while you are seated.
- Tympanometry
This is a test that evaluates the function of the eardrum and middle ear. You will hear a tone and feel a little pressure but you will not have to actively participate in this test.
- A pure tone test
This is the part most people think of when they think of a hearing test. A series of sounds will be played for you while you are seated in a sound treated booth with specially designed headphones. The audiologist will communicate with you through the headphones to determine if you have hearing loss and what type.
- Speech testing
During this portion of the test the audiologist will play words for you to repeat. This allows the audiologist to determine your speech understanding ability which can have a big impact on your daily life.
Our SoundLogic team can schedule your hearing test, and then advise you on what to do next for your hearing health. There are different types of hearing devices, based upon the type and severity of hearing loss you experience. Your audiologist will help you choose the hearing device that is correct for you.
Call our SoundLogic team today to schedule your hearing test and take the first step on your hearing healthcare journey!