Do You Need a Hearing Test?

Wondering if you need a hearing test? If it’s been a while since your last one, or if you’re struggling to hear conversations or everyday sounds, the answer is likely yes. But if you’re still unsure, here are some key signs that it might be time to see an audiologist.

Difficulty Following Conversations

If you have noticed that you are finding it harder to follow a conversation with friends or family, especially if the surrounding area is noisy, and if you often find yourself asking people to repeat what they have just said, you should schedule a hearing test.

Turning Up the Volume

Have you found yourself turning up the volume on your TV or phone more often? If so, it could be a sign that your hearing isn’t as clear as it used to be, especially if others have mentioned how loud you’re playing things.

Struggling with Phone Calls

If you’ve been having trouble hearing people clearly during phone calls, it might be a sign that your hearing is changing. Difficulty understanding conversations over the phone can be an early indicator that it’s time to get a hearing test.

Feeling Tired After Listening

If you feel unusually fatigued after social events or meetings, it might be because your brain is working harder to interpret sounds. This listening fatigue is a sign that your hearing could be declining. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a hearing test with an audiologist.

Why Regular Hearing Tests are Important

Even if you’re not experiencing obvious signs of hearing loss, regular hearing tests are a proactive way to maintain your hearing health. Hearing loss often progresses gradually, so you might not notice it right away. Regular tests can catch changes in your hearing early, allowing for timely intervention.

For adults, it’s recommended to have a hearing test every few years, especially if you’re over 50 or have a history of exposure to loud noises. If you work in a noisy environment or have a family history of hearing loss, more frequent testing might be beneficial.

What Happens During a Hearing Test?

During your test, your audiologist will conduct a series of evaluations to assess different aspects of your hearing. You’ll likely sit in a soundproof booth, wear headphone and respond to various sounds. These could include tones at different pitches and volumes, as well as spoken words that you’ll need to repeat.

The results of your hearing test will be displayed on an audiogram, a visual chart that shows your hearing ability across a range of frequencies. Your audiologist will discuss the type of hearing loss you have and the severity you are experiencing. Your audiologist will review the results with you and discuss any next steps, like hearing aids, if hearing loss is detected.

So, do you need a hearing test? If your hearing has changed or you have not had a hearing test in a few years, schedule an appointment with an audiologist. This will help them to see if there has been any changes to your hearing and find the right treatment for you.