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 examined. And perhaps you believe it can wait because you don’t believe you’re afflicted by hearing loss.
Here’s why you shouldn’t wait:
1. You Can Protect Against Further Hearing Loss
Many individuals don’t appreciate how severe their hearing loss is becoming because it progresses so gradually. As time passes, they start compensating and making lifestyle changes without knowing it. And because they don’t realize they have hearing loss, they keep engaging in activities that worsen their hearing loss.
But knowledge is power.
It can be an eye-opener to have your hearing tested. You can slow the advancement of hearing loss but there is no way to undo the damage already done.
If you are suffering from moderate hearing loss, you will want to understand how to stop it from getting worse.
The progression of hearing loss can be slowed by more efficiently controlling chronic disease, lowering your blood pressure, and exercising more.
Your ears will be protected from further harm by wearing ear protection when subjected to loud sounds and reducing your exposure.
2. You’re Missing More Than You Know
If you are dealing with moderate hearing loss, you may have gradually forgotten how much you love listening to music. You may not remember what it’s like to have a discussion without asking family or friends to repeat themselves.
You might find yourself getting further away from doing your favorite things and spending time with friends.
Having a hearing exam lets you evaluate your level of hearing loss. In most instances, we can help improve your hearing.
3. You May Improve Your Hearing Aid Experience
If you already use a hearing aid, you may not want to wear it. You may not feel like it improves your listening experience. Visiting a hearing specialist and having your hearing re-analyzed will guarantee you have the hearing aids that work best for you and that they’re adjusted for your individual listening needs.
4. You May be at Risk Already
Among adults ages 55 to 64, 8.5 percent are experiencing debilitating hearing loss. Hearing loss is typically the result of environmental factors. It isn’t simply something that occurs when you get older. Exposure to loud noise causes most of it.
If you engage in the following things, you’re at an increased risk:
- Ride a snowmobile or motorcycle
- Use a motorized lawnmower
- Go to concerts, plays, or concerts
- Listen to loud music or use earbuds
- Work at a loud job
- Hunt or practice shooting with firearms
Hearing loss can be caused by any of these common activities. If you see a decline in your hearing whatever age, you should have your hearing checked by a hearing specialist as soon as possible.
5. Your Over-all Health Will Improve
If you ignore your hearing loss you will have a substantially higher chance of the following:
- Alzheimer’s/dementia
- Social isolation (preferring to be alone)
- Missing or skipping doctor appointments
- Anxiety
- Falls that cause injuries
- Longer treatments in hospitals and rehab
- Slow healing or repeated hospital visits
- Depression
Having your hearing examined is about more than only your hearing.
6. Repair Tense Relationships
Neglected hearing loss can try the patience of your family members and friends. Misunderstandings are more common. The situation is irritating for everyone. Bitterness and regret could follow. Rather than constantly needing to repeat themselves, friends and family 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.
