A degree of hearing loss is expected as you age, but deafness does not have to be inevitable. Many people make the switch to hearing aids as they notice their range of auditory perception is narrow. If you suspect that your hearing loss has progressed to the point that intervention is necessary, a specialist can help you decide whether hearing aids fit you.
At SLENT, with locations in Mandeville, Slidell, and Hammond, Louisiana, our otolaryngology specialists can perform hearing screenings, recommend aids if necessary, and ensure your hearing aids are properly fitted for optimal results.
An overview of hearing loss
There are two main types of hearing loss: conductive and sensorineural. Conductive hearing loss is often caused by a blockage that’s keeping sound from entering the ear, while sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the structures within.
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the more common of the two types, affecting most seniors to some degree. Risk factors like noise exposure can increase your likelihood of developing SNHL. Without intervention, this condition will continue to progress, affecting your ability to hear and communicate effectively.
Symptoms of SNHL
The symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss can be gradual, but you’ll eventually notice that your hearing isn’t what it used to be. Common symptoms include:
- Trouble hearing when there’s background noise
- Difficulty distinguishing voices over one another
- Hearing people speak but not understanding them
- Sounds and voices seem muffled or indistinct
- Tinnitus, or chronic ringing in the ears
You can cope with SNHL for a while by asking people to speak clearly and having social events at quiet venues, but eventually, you’ll need to consider hearing aids as an assistive device.
When to consider hearing aids
It might be time to consider hearing aids if you’re having trouble understanding others, feel frustrated by lively conversations or loud environments, or miss hearing birdsong, frogs, and other natural sounds.
Some people find themselves hesitant to commit to hearing aids, whether because of the aesthetics or concerns about whether or not they’ll help. With assistance from the experts at SLENT, you can find a solution that suits your needs and provides better hearing.
The earlier you decide to get fitted with hearing aids, the easier it will be to adjust to them. So if you’re struggling with hearing loss, there’s no better time to consider treatment than today.
Finding the right fit
Many people get hearing aids, but the aids end up forgotten in a drawer because the user doesn’t know how to wear them properly. We believe everyone who needs hearing aids should get a complete education on how to wear and use their aids effectively, and we’re here to help.
We make sure you get fitted with a hearing aid that feels as comfortable as possible and delivers a satisfactory auditory experience. To learn more about hearing aids and discuss your options, schedule a consultation with the team at SLENT by calling the location closest to you, or visiting the contact page for more information.