A study published in the journal Health Technology Assessment reports, “A simple systematic screen, using an audiometric screening instrument, has been shown to be acceptable to people in the age range 55-74 years, is likely to provide substantial benefit and may be cost-effective to those in that target group.”
There are many other benefits to a hearing test besides being cost-effective. We review some of these benefits below.
Early Detection Yields More Effective Treatment
Hearing loss is a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time. Therefore, the longer you wait to seek treatment, the harder it is to treat. The reason for this is because your brain essentially forgets how to process certain sounds. Even when you start treatment, it takes time for your brain to learn how to identify important sounds and filter out background noise. Seeking treatment early means you will be able to adjust to the hearing world again with greater ease.
Confirm or Rule Out Other Conditions
Sometimes hearing loss is the symptom of a serious underlying health condition, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease or kidney disease. Like with hearing loss, the sooner these conditions are identified and treated, the better outcomes you’ll achieve.
Better Hearing and Communication
The first step toward better hearing and communication is diagnosing your hearing loss with a hearing test. Then, treatment can begin right away. With hearing aids, you’ll be able to hear and communicate better than you have in years. This is because hearing aids turn up the volume on the sounds in your environment, even in complex listening situations like 1865 Brewing Company during trivia night.
Improved Mental Health
Many people with untreated hearing loss suffer from anxiety and depression and don’t even realize the cause. When you can’t hear well, you worry about mishearing what people say and responding inappropriately. This anxiety can cause you to withdraw from people and activities you once enjoyed, leading to depression. Getting your hearing loss diagnosed and treated can help you navigate the world with more happiness and confidence.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment for a hearing test, call Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy today.