Everything You Need to Know About Hearing Exams

Hearing is an important part of our daily lives, but many people don’t think about it until they start noticing changes. Regular hearing exams with an audiologist can help catch any hearing issues early. This allows for timely solutions to address any problems. If you’ve never had a hearing exam before, it’s helpful to know what to expect during the process. This exam is a key step in taking care of your hearing and ensuring you’re on the right track for maintaining good hearing health.

Why Hearing Exams Matter

Hearing loss is more common than many people think and can affect individuals of all ages. It often develops gradually over time but can also happen suddenly due to factors like earwax buildup, exposure to loud noises or age-related changes in hearing. Regular hearing exams are important because they can help detect any changes in your hearing early on. Identifying hearing loss early allows you to address it before it becomes an issue, improving your ability to communicate and maintain your quality of life.

When Should You See an Audiologist?

As you age, it’s important to pay attention to changes in your hearing. If you are 50 or older, it’s a good idea to get a hearing exam. If you notice any changes in your hearing over time, it’s important to schedule a follow-up exam. Here are some common signs that could mean it’s time to see an audiologist for a hearing test:

• Struggling to hear conversations, especially in noisy environments.
• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves.
• Turning up the volume on the TV or other devices often.
• Experiencing ringing or buzzing in your ears.

If you’re noticing any of these signs, it may be time to talk to an audiologist and get your hearing checked.

What Happens During a Hearing Exam?

A hearing exam is a simple and straightforward process. It typically starts with your audiologist asking about your family’s hearing history and questions related to your lifestyle. They may want to know about your exposure to loud noises or if you’ve ever had any ear infections. After that, the audiologist will conduct a series of tests in a quiet, soundproof room to assess your hearing ability.

Before starting the hearing tests, your audiologist will first perform a visual examination of your ear canal to check for any blockages, earwax buildup or signs of infection. The next test is pure-tone testing, where you’ll wear headphones and respond when you hear different pitches and volumes. This test helps the audiologist determine the softest sounds you can hear. Speech testing will also be done to assess your ability to understand speech.

What Are the Treatment Options?

After your hearing exam, your audiologist will discuss the treatment options that are best suited for your needs. Depending on the results, you may be recommended hearing aids to improve your hearing. If the issue is due to earwax buildup, your audiologist can help with safe removal. Your audiologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your unique hearing needs.

If you are experiencing signs of hearing loss or want to learn more about hearing exams, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.