Would you rather react to a problem, or prevent a problem? We asked that very question on social media this week and nearly 100% said they would rather prevent a problem. It is much easier to take action before something becomes a problem than to have to try to fix the problem. Let me illustrate, every car has recommended maintenance at different mileage intervals. It is fairly easy and inexpensive to change the oil regularly, rotate and balance your tires and to replace the spark plugs. However, what would happen if you never changed the oil in your car? Potentially you would have to replace the whole engine, a fix that is not quite as cost effective and a lot more inconvenient.
Hearing Health Maintenance
What does this have to do with hearing care? Well, much like a car, our bodies require a lot of regular, preventative maintenance. We have regular check-ups with our family doctor and different exams are recommended based on our age and other factors. The goal of those exams is to make sure everything is running smoothly, and if not, to catch it in time before it becomes a problem. A hearing test is another important health screening we should add to our re
gular health maintenance schedule.
Since hearing loss often develops slowly and over time, it can be easily overlooked. On average, it takes most people who are struggling with hearing loss between 7 and 10 years to have their hearing tested. That is a big problem! The longer hearing loss goes undetected, the worse the condition will get. Just think, if you have a toothache and you schedule an appointment with your dentist right away, he may diagnose you with a cavity. You get it filled and off you go. However, if you ignore the toothache for say, 7-10 years, and you only go to the dentist because the pain is unbearable, what will happen? More than likely, the tooth will be beyond repair and other measures will have to be taken. The same is true with our hearing. Untreated hearing loss can result in brain atrophy, since the sound processing centers of the brain begin to shut down if they do not receive information. When that happens, it is extremely difficult to reactivate them.
What Should You Do?
We recommend a yearly hearing evaluation. Your initial hearing test will give your hearing provider a baseline picture of your hearing health. Each year the specialist will the be able to compare your hearing tests and quickly identify any negative changes. Those with milder hearing loss typically respond better to treatment options than others who have left their hearing loss untreated. If a hearing loss is detected, we will recommend a course of treatment. If hearing aids are the answer, then we offer a variety of options and would help you choose what will best suit your hearing needs and complement your lifestyle.
If you are ready to schedule your hearing test, click the link below. Complete hearing evaluations are always free at our office.