Have you ever had your hearing tested? If they answer is No, you’re not alone. In fact, most people go practically their whole life without having their hearing tested. Audiologists advise hearing test should be done as often as a vision test with an optometrist.
While you may think your hearing is working perfectly, it is difficult to notice changes that happen slowly over time. Which is why it is important to have semi-regular hearing test.
However, there are a few clear indications you need to make an appointment for a hearing test
Straining to comprehend conversations
While it is pretty normal to not hear someone every now and then, but if you are constantly having to question what people are saying or asking them to repeat themselves, you may be experiencing a degree of hearing loss.
If you find yourself reading lips, it is a tale tell sign. Also, struggling to hear high pitch sounds, such as understanding children and women when they speak.
If you or a loved one seems to be turning the sound on the television or radio higher and higher, it is time to visit an audiologist.
Missing sounds
In times of relatively busy background noise, a person should be able to make out individual sounds. If you are out and about, someone with healthy hearing shouldn’t struggle to hear someone sitting across from them at a restaurant, shopping in a store, or walking in town.
Other examples include, seeing an ambulance before hearing its siren or not hearing the doorbell ring when the television is on. If you experience any of these, don’t worry, there are many treatments that can help.
Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
If you hear ringing, buzzing, or whistling as if they are external sounds, it may be Tinnitus. It can be constant and uncomfortable, or come and go. Either way, it can be linked to a host of issues, one of which is hearing loss.
If you are struggling to hear or missing sounds, it’s time to make an appointment with an Audiologist.
The audiologists at Orlando Ears, Nose, and Throat, are all doctoral level practitioners experienced with patients of all ages. They are present everyday to assist the physicians in evaluating and documenting the inner workings of the ear.
