It’s All in Your Head: May is Better Hearing Month!

There is no better time than Better Hearing Month to discuss your hearing health. Hearing health can be associated with other health issues as well. Falling, social isolation, loneliness and cognitive decline are just a few issues often seen with hearing loss. It is good to maintain our healthy hearing to be able to communicate with our family and friends and to continue attending our social events.

How do you know if it’s time to have your hearing health evaluated?

Are you hearing other people but not always understanding what was said?

Do other people in your family have hearing loss?

Do you have constant ringing, roaring or buzzing in your ears?

Do others tell you your TV is too loud?

If you avoid loud places because it is difficult to have a conversation.

Do you ask people to repeat themselves often?

How do you begin your healthy hearing journey?

It is important to start with a full check up on your ear and hearing with an Otolaryngologist or Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) physician and an Audiologist. Sometimes, our struggle with being able to hear is due to wax build up. This can be removed by an Otolaryngologist or ENT in the office. There are also other medical reasons for hearing loss which is why it is important to start with a visit to an ENT physician. Once you are cleared by the physician, a hearing test can be completed to determine how you are hearing. The results of your test will determine your next steps.

Your healthy hearing journey:

If you have hearing loss, depending on the severity or type, you might be a candidate for hearing aids. If you are the next step is to set up an appointment with an Audiologist to discuss your hearing needs. If you are not a candidate for hearing aids the Audiologist or ENT would discuss other potential options for you.

Treating your hearing loss with hearing aids helps you maintain your hearing health and relationships with friends and family. By taking the next step to better hearing health you are reducing your risk of loneliness, social isolation and cognitive decline.

If you have normal hearing the Audiologist or ENT may discuss ways to preserve your normal hearing. The best way to do that is to use hearing protection devices during any noisy activities. Noisy activities could include mowing the lawn, blowing leaves or music concerts. There are many options for hearing protection devices from over-the-counter options to custom made options. There are also plugs to keep water out of your ears if needed.

If you have concerns about your hearing health, reach out to your local Otolaryngologist/ENT and Audiologist.