Do You Really Need an Annual Hearing Test?

The world is a busy place. From work to home, school and everywhere in between, our days are filled with sounds that often go unnoticed. But what might seem like background noise could actually be putting you at risk for hearing loss. Thankfully, there are many ways to avoid the risk factors for hearing loss! With regular hearing screenings and preventive measures, you can prevent hearing loss.

The Basics of Hearing Loss

We often think of hearing loss as something that comes with getting older, but it can happen at any age and for many reasons. Unfortunately, hearing loss often goes undiagnosed, and people may not realize that they have a problem. Hearing loss is often gradual, and people may not notice the change or associate it with a medical condition. If you’re concerned that you might have hearing loss, don’t wait! Schedule an appointment with an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist to catch any issues early and eliminate the risk factors of hearing loss from your daily life.

Avoid Loud Noise

There are several causes of hearing loss, many of which you can avoid. The first is very loud noise. Some jobs, like working in construction or as a musician, put you at more risk for hearing loss. But even if you don’t work in one of those fields, you can still put yourself at risk for hearing loss by being exposed to loud noise regularly.

Examples of loud noise include going to many concerts or frequenting clubs. Don’t worry! If you enjoy these types of activities, you can wear earplugs or minimize your time spent around loud music to make sure you aren’t at risk for hearing loss.

Risk Factors for Hearing Loss

Unfortunately, there are some risk factors for hearing loss that we cannot control. These include aging, genetics and illness. As you get older, the parts in your ear responsible for hearing deteriorate. Your genetics can also play a role in this deterioration, and in how fast or slow it happens. If your parents or grandparents have hearing loss, you may be at risk, too.

Certain illnesses, like those that cause a high fever, can also damage your ears and put you at risk for hearing loss. While these factors are not easily controlled, an annual hearing test can identify any issues and make sure they don’t lead to permanent damage in your ear before it’s too late.

What is an Annual Hearing Test?

An annual hearing test is a screening that tests your hearing ability and can help detect any issues before they become permanent. An ear, nose and throat specialist are qualified to make sure your hearing is in the best shape or to offer you solutions to help you hear better if necessary. You can also schedule an appointment with your ear, nose and throat specialist at any time if you feel that your hearing has gotten worse.

How are Hearing Tests Performed?

A hearing test is completely painless and takes about half an hour to complete. In most hearing tests, your ENT doctor will ask you a series of questions to understand your medical history and your risk for developing hearing related issues. Then, you will wear headphones and alert your doctor when you hear a sound played through them. Your ENT doctor might have a different way of conducting a hearing test, but all hearing tests are simple and easy, so you don’t have to worry!

Do I Need Hearing Aids?

Only your ear, nose and throat specialist can tell you if you need hearing aids. However, if you do, don’t worry! Your ENT will work with you to make sure that you get the best hearing aids for your specific situation. There are many types of hearing aids. Some types of hearing aids are visible, while some are hidden inside your ear and are nearly impossible to see.

What type of hearing aid is best for you will be determined by your personal preferences as well as what you need to help you hear better. If you think you need hearing aids, don’t wait to contact your ear, nose and throat specialist!

Your hearing is not something you should brush off. Hearing loss can be caused by many issues, not all of which are completely preventable. Therefore, you should have annual hearing tests as well as visits to your ENT specialist if you notice any changes with your hearing. If you are looking for an ear, nose and throat specialist, contact Vero ENT Associates at (772) 408-9556. Don’t wait to make sure your hearing is at its best!