October is Audiology Awareness Month. It was established by the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) in 2008 as a way to promote awareness about hearing loss as well as ways to protect your hearing.
While things like using hearing protection and limiting your exposure to loud noise are essential to keeping your hearing healthy, it’s also a good idea to be proactive about getting your hearing tested.
Let’s look at four situations where you should schedule an appointment for a hearing test.
Everyone Seems Like They Are Mumbling
One of the earliest signs of hearing loss is having a harder time understanding what people are saying. You can hear that they are speaking, but you just can’t make out what’s being said. You might especially notice problems in noisier environments with background noise, such as a popular Williamsburg restaurant like Food for Thought.
You may assume the problem is the person you’re talking to or the environment you are in, but if it happens frequently, it’s worth getting checked out by a hearing specialist.
Family and Friends Have Commented on Your Hearing
Most hearing loss develops slowly, which makes it hard to notice. It’s not uncommon for a loved one to be the first to point out that you might have an issue with your hearing. Maybe your spouse voices frustration at how often you seem to mishear or ignore what they are saying. Or a family member comments on how loudly you have the TV turned up while watching a movie together. Try to be receptive to what they are saying and consider getting a hearing evaluation.
You Are Over the Age of 50
While hearing loss can occur at any time, it does become more likely as we age. If you are 50 or older and haven’t had your hearing tested in the last few years, it’s a good idea to go in for a screening. If your hearing is normal, your provider will probably recommend that you come back to recheck in a few years. If you have hearing loss, you can begin early treatment with hearing aids and help reduce your risk of experiencing the negative effects of untreated hearing loss.
You Are Regularly Exposed to Loud Noise
Noise-induced hearing loss is a common problem across all age groups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 12.5% of children aged 6-19 and 17% of adults aged 20-69 have suffered permanent damage to their hearing because of exposure to loud noise.
If you work in a noisy environment, like a construction site or engage in hobbies like playing music, riding motorcycles or going to concerns, you may be at an increased risk. Having regular hearing tests can help establish a baseline and catch any changes to your hearing early. While noise-induced hearing loss cannot be reversed, it can be treated with hearing aids or other assistive listening devices.
To learn more to schedule an appointment, call Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy today.