Do You Need to See an Audiologist?

Most people are aware of the tell-tale signs of hearing loss; if the volume of the television is blaring or you’re constantly asking people to repeat themselves, chances are good it’s time to see an audiologist.

It’s not an uncommon occurrence. Hearing loss, after all, affects nearly 45 million Americans — many who live with it undiagnosed. Living with undiagnosed hearing loss can be dangerous and have negative consequences on an individual’s health, putting one at higher risk for depression, isolation, anxiety and brain atrophy.

Do I need to see an audiologist?

Consider the following signs of hearing loss as indicators that an audiology appointment may be in your future:

• Difficulty hearing high-pitched noises. Higher pitched noises, such as women’s and children’s voices, are more difficult to register. Being unable to hear such voices is often one of the first signs of hearing loss. In addition to voices, high-pitched noises like a child’s cry, a phone ringing or a bird’s song can begin to fade and become more difficult to discern as hearing loss sets in.
• Television volume on full blast. Do others complain your TV is too loud? What may be good for you might be uncomfortable or painful for others, especially if you’re dealing with undiagnosed hearing loss.
• Requesting people to repeat themselves. Do you find that people sound as though they are mumbling? And do you find yourself asking them to repeat what they said? If these sound familiar, chances are likely that you’re beginning to experience hearing loss.
• Inability to follow conversation in crowds. For individuals with untreated hearing loss, following a conversation in a crowded environment, such as a restaurant or grocery store, can be difficult, as well as a sign of hearing loss.

What’s the next step?

If you believe you could use help from an audiologist, the next step is to make an appointment. If you don’t know how to find an audiologist, consider asking for a recommendation from your primary care physician, friends or family members who have been treated for hearing loss or by looking on websites that provide reviews for audiologists.

Hearing loss can be incredibly detrimental to your quality of life. Don’t suffer through silence any longer; schedule an appointment with a knowledgeable audiologist in your area today.