Hearing loss is the 3rd most common health problem in the United States. It currently affects 36 million Americans per day. There can be several reasons for hearing loss such as illness, certain medications, infection, trauma, allergies, or part of the aging process. It can also affect people of all ages. If you’re experiencing any of the signs listed below, it’s important to be further evaluated to prevent any further hearing loss and be cared for.
- Sudden change in hearing. It’s important to get tested as soon as possible in this situation.
- Difficulty differentiating noises. You struggle to hear other people talk in noisy environments such as restaurants or group events.
- You feel like everyone else is mumbling. You only catch parts of words sometimes.
- You often ask others to repeat themselves.
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus). This can be in both ears or just one. It can come and go or always be there too.
- You find it hard to understand conversations over the phone or when someone isn’t facing you directly.
- You’ve been turning up the TV volume too much.
- Missing out on day-to-day sounds, such as cell phone ringing or the birds tweeting outside.
- If you experience Vertigo.
What’s the difference between Hearing Screening and a Hearing Test?
Hearing screenings are commonly confused with a formal hearing test, also called Audiograms. Hearing screenings are quick, basic tests that one either passes or fails. The patient wears headphones and signals when noises are heard. Audiograms, on the other hand, are completed by Audiologists. They use a variety of different tests to determine your ability to hear sound. The patient sits in an enclosed sound-proof booth to complete the test. Audiograms are painless and take about 10-15 minutes.
How often do I need my hearing tested?
This answer varies from person to person. Typically, we recommend baseline Audiograms starting at age 65 years old. Depending on the results, one may require testing annually or every other year to monitor progress or any changes. If there is any sign of infection, fluid in your ear, sudden change in hearing, an Audiogram is also indicated as soon as possible.
How can we help?
At Montgomery County Ent Institute, we offer formal Audiograms with specially trained and highly experienced Audiologists. The test takes 10-15 minutes and are reviewed afterwards with Dr. Melissa Schwartz or one of our Physician Assistants. In addition to reviewing Audiograms, we also thoroughly examine the outside and inside of your ears, nose, and throat for any other underlying causes.
Call Today to Schedule an Appointment.