Hearing Tests
Hearing loss is one of the biggest health concerns in the US.
Impacting roughly 20% of the American population.
Hearing Tests
Hearing loss is one of the biggest health concerns in the US.
Impacting roughly 20% of the American population.
The Steps to Better Hearing
Are you constantly asking “what?” or feeling left out of conversations at work or social events? If hearing loss is getting in the way of your daily life, it’s time to do something about it.
Hearing loss can affect anyone, no matter their age, background, or gender. At Hear For You Hearing Aid Center, we get that. We offer caring and understanding support to people of all ages, helping you overcome hearing challenges and once again enjoying the sounds.
STEP 1: The Consultation
The interview process helps our practice determine the extent of your hearing impairment and aids us in uncovering any specific areas requiring further attention. Some typical questions you’ll want to prepare for are:
- Has anyone else in your family had hearing problems?
- Have you had any illnesses or injuries that might have affected your hearing?
- Have you taken any medications that might have contributed to hearing impairment?
- Have you been exposed to loud noises in your workplace or while participating in leisure activities?
STEP 2: The Examination
Our hearing care providers take a close look inside your ear and figure out whether the hearing difficulty you are experiencing could be caused by an obstruction or damage to the ear canal or eardrum. We use a special instrument called an otoscope or video otoscope to inspect your outer ear.
STEP 3: The Hearing Test
Next we’ll need to figure out the nature of your hearing loss. There’s a chance we will include hearing tests such as the following:
- A hearing screening to measure your hearing at four frequencies at 25 decibels each
- A speech assessment to measure how well you hear and understand ordinary conversation at different volumes
- A middle-ear evaluation to measure how your eardrum and hearing react to varying degrees of air pressure
If you are suffering from a hearing impairment, your results will be documented on an audiogram. An audiogram is created after you take a pure-tone hearing test, to map out the type, degree, and configuration of your hearing loss. The audiogram shows your hearing loss by frequency, as pitch and loudness of sounds change. Frequencies are measured in hertz (Hz), and the loudness or intensity is measured in decibels (dB). We will help determine whether you have trouble hearing low or high pitches and what that means for you moving forward.
STEP 4: Rehabilitation
Hearing Aids
We will work with you to match your lifestyle needs with the most advanced technology, specifically designed to treat your unique hearing loss. The basic components of this instrument include a microphone, an amplifier, a receiver, and a tiny processor. The exceptional effectiveness of your devices is the result of a powerful combination of professional expertise, software, and hardware.
Hearing Loss FAQ
Are some types of hearing loss easier to treat?
Hearing loss is a puzzle that our professionals love to solve, and it is based on your individual experiences, lifestyle, and severity of impairment. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment method for hearing loss — it’s based on the sounds that you can’t hear, which vary greatly, and the sounds that you want to be able to hear. A quality hearing system from a reputable manufacturer isn’t effective until an experienced, qualified hearing care professional programs the technology properly based on your unique hearing needs.
Can hearing loss be prevented?
Can hearing loss be inherited?
Yes, hearing loss can absolutely be inherited. Genetic factors account for a significant portion of hearing loss cases, both at birth and later in life. This can occur even without a clear family history, as some genes require mutations from both parents to manifest, or a new mutation can arise. Understanding genetic links helps in diagnosis and potential management.
Can my hearing improve over time?
Unfortunately, many forms of hearing loss are permanent because there is no cure. Treatment methods that feature amplification fit to your specific hearing loss by a hearing care professional typically have the highest user satisfaction for improved hearing and improved quality of life.
Types of Hearing Loss
Your treatment will depend on your type and degree of hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss occurs when there are problems in the outer ear, ear canal, eardrum or middle ear. A conductive hearing loss is often correctable with surgery or medications (typically antibiotics). Alternatively, it may be treated with hearing aids.
Sensorineural hearing loss involves a problem with the inner ear, and is frequently referred to as “nerve deafness.” Sensorineural hearing loss can sometimes be treated with medications (corticosteroids) or surgery. More likely, hearing aids will be required.
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both types. Treatment might involve a combination of medication, surgery and/or hearing aids.
Do You Need a Hearing Test?
Hearing loss is a progressive condition that worsens over time. Symptoms appear so gradually, you may be completely unaware of your loss for some time.
Knowing the signs is helpful in spurring you to take action sooner. Any of the following might indicate hearing loss:
Do others complain the TV is too loud?
Do you have trouble hearing in a noisy room?