We rely on our hearing to communicate with others, enjoy our favourite music or TV shows, and stay aware of our surroundings. However, hearing loss is a common issue that affects many people, especially as we age.
That’s why getting a hearing test as part of your regular health routine is crucial.
What are the benefits? What can you expect during the process? Do you even need one yet?
That’s what this article is all about.
Why It’s Important to Get a Hearing Test
Regular hearing tests are crucial in detecting hearing loss early and taking proactive measures to manage it effectively. Untreated hearing loss can significantly impact your quality of life. It can lead to social isolation, depression and cognitive decline, which no one wants to experience.
Even if you haven’t been exposed to loud noises or certain medications or medical conditions, hearing loss can still occur due to age or other environmental factors.
A hearing test not only confirms the presence of hearing loss, but also identifies its underlying cause. This allows a professional hearing care provider to recommend appropriate treatment options.
So, how can you tell if you have a hearing problem that requires attention? Let’s take a look:
Signs You Might Need a Hearing Test
If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it might be time to get a hearing test:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing conversations in noisy environments
- Asking people to repeat themselves more and more frequently
- Turning up the volume on the TV or radio, especially if others have commented on it
- Hearing ringing or buzzing sounds in your ears
- Avoiding social situations because of difficulty hearing
- Feeling like others are mumbling or not speaking clearly
What to Expect during a Hearing Test
- A hearing test is a non-invasive procedure that typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
- You’ll wear headphones and listen to different sounds at different volumes and frequencies.
- You’ll be asked to indicate when you hear a sound.
- Speech Audiometry: Assesses your ability to hear and understand speech at different volumes
- Tympanometry: Measures your eardrum movement in response to air pressure changes
- Speech-in-noise testing: Assesses hearing impairment by measuring the ability to recognize keywords within spoken sentences set against varying background noise.
The results will be recorded on an audiogram, which is a graph that shows your hearing ability at different frequencies and volumes.
Your results will be compared to normal hearing ranges, and your Audiologist or hearing care provider will explain the findings to you.
If you have a hearing loss, your Audiologist may recommend hearing aids or other assistive devices to help manage your condition.
Hearing Test Benefits
There are many benefits to getting a hearing test, including:
- Early hearing loss detection
- Improved communication with friends and family
- Better quality of life
- Lower risk of cognitive decline and social isolation
- Improved job performance and personal safety
Given this upside, how often should you get a hearing test?
If you’re over the age of 50, it’s a good idea to get a hearing test every year.
However, if you have a history of hearing loss or other risk factors (this includes exposure to loud noises), you may need to get tested more frequently. In fact, any time you have difficulty understanding conversations or hear ringing in your ears, get a hearing test as soon as possible.
Getting Hearing Aids after a Hearing Test
If your hearing test reveals that you have a hearing loss, your hearing care provider may recommend hearing aids.
Hearing aids are small electronic devices that amplify sounds and help you hear better.
The many types of hearing aids have their own strengths and weaknesses and not every type (behind-the-ear, in-the-ear and in-the-canal models) may be suitable for your needs.
We offer some of the best hearing aid technology available.
This is where a qualified Hearing Instrument Specialist can help you choose the best type of hearing aid for your needs and preferences.
How to Get Your Hearing Tested in Mississauga
If you’re experiencing any signs of hearing loss or haven’t had a hearing test in a while, it’s time to take action.
Schedule a hearing test today at Port Credit Audiology & Hearing Aid Clinic and take the first step toward better hearing and a better life. If you’re ready to schedule a test or have questions at all about your hearing health, contact us today. We’re here to help you hear your best.
You can contact us to inquire about a hearing assessment or to find out more. Request a callback here. Or, give us a call at (905) 990-3755.
See for yourself why we’re trusted by hundreds of local families.
