In the US, approximately 30-million people experience hearing-related issues, and while they can be significant, most of them can be helped with hearing aids. But before a hearing aid is considered, you must assess whether you really need one or not.
There are many symptoms of hearing loss, but some of the top signs that you need a hearing aid include:
- Conversational issues
- Muffled sounds
Having to ask people to repeat themselves or not following a conversation is one of the first signs of hearing loss. At the same time, muffled sounds from everyday things is another main issue. If you find yourself avoiding social interaction because of hearing problems, then it might be time to consult an audiologist.
Conversational issues
Initially, the first clue that you might need a hearing aid will usually come from the fact that you are asking people to repeat themselves because you missed it or losing people mid-conversation because you haven’t heard them properly. This is usually first noticed when a relative, partner, or close friend begins to complain that you are ignoring what they have said, asked, or instructed, but you have simply not heard them purely as a symptom of hearing loss.
Muffled sounds
In addition to conversational issues, you might begin to notice that everyday sounds such as opening doors, footsteps, or even the TV have become muffled, distant, or generally don’t sound how they should. This is a genuine medical concern and should be taken seriously as it could be an infection as well as a sign of hearing loss.
What you can do
In many cases, hearing loss occurs due to wax buildup or an inner ear infection and these can be easily treated with OTC medication. However, 25 to 75-year-olds are susceptible to non-restorable heating loss that requires the use of a hearing aid.
A hearing aid is a small device that receives and amplifies sounds directly into the ear from a small but powerful speaker. There are different types of hearing aids that are best suited for different cases, and your audiologist will be able to tell you which one is best suited for your situation.
Types of hearing aids:
- In the ear (ITE): Used for mild-to-moderately severe hearing loss and fits inside the inner ear. They can also be used with public induction loop systems.
- Behind the ear (BTE): Ideal for mild-to-profound hearing loss and fits behind the ear connected to an earmold that fits the inner ear.
- In the canal (ITC): These devices are used for mild-to-moderate hearing loss and fit directly inside the ear canal. Because of their small size, they aren’t recommended for children and or individuals with dexterity issues.
Because of the options available, experiencing hearing loss shouldn’t be feared and, in a lot of cases, can be fixed with a hearing aid or suitable treatment. The options available and technologies are always improving, and most modern hearing aids are comfortable and hardly noticeable with multiple options depending on your personal preference.
