Who Should Visit an Audiologist?

If you have concerns that you or your loved one may be experiencing hearing loss, you should plan to get your hearing tested as soon as possible. Hearing impairment can have a negative impact on every aspect of a person’s work and social life if it is left untreated. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to social anxiety, depression and cognitive decline, not to mention the fact that it poses an obvious threat to physical safety if you cannot comfortably hear the world around you. It’s crucial to treat hearing loss as soon as it’s suspected.

When it comes to treating hearing loss, it is essential to find the right audiologist to learn more about your options. So, who should see an audiologist?

You have not yet had a hearing evaluation

If you will be having your ear health and hearing evaluated for the first time, the general recommendation is that you should see an audiologist. Hearing loss can be a symptom of other medical problems or conditions, so to protect your overall health; these should be ruled out first. Audiologists are trained to assess the health and function of your entire auditory system, from the brain to the ears.

You are concerned about a loved one who may not be able to participate in standard hearing tests

Audiologists are able to treat a variety of patients, from newborns to older adults. Because younger children or older adults may have difficulty with some of the traditional tests performed, an audiologist is ideal because they have a complete spectrum of tests to meet specific behavioural needs. If you are not sure if a basic hearing test will be suitable for your family member, you should contact an audiologist and they will be able to advise you.

Your hearing loss could be related to another medical condition

Hearing loss can sometimes be a symptom of another condition, such as certain autoimmune diseases or brain tumors. However, if you are aware of having a pre-existing condition such as Meniere’s disease, or your hearing loss is accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, headaches or vertigo, you should contact an audiologist for tests immediately.

Your hearing loss has worsened suddenly

Most hearing loss develops gradually and often goes unnoticed; this type of hearing loss is caused by aging or exposure to excessive noise. If you have noticed a sudden decline in your hearing ability, it may be caused by something else, including: other medical conditions, head injuries and medications known to cause hearing loss. Your audiologist will be able to advise you if any of these conditions could be negatively impacting your hearing.

Hearing loss can be debilitating, but it doesn’t have to be. Call an audiologist in your area today and schedule a consultation!