We tend to take our hearing for granted, assuming it will always be there for us, even though hearing loss affects 1 out of 3 adults aged 65 or older. Hearing impairment often develops so gradually that many aren’t even aware of the changes until it has advanced beyond an easily treatable stage. This could be avoided if we treated our ears with the same care and attention paid to our eyes; much like routine vision exams, regular hearing exams are an excellent first line of defense. Early detection increases the odds of successful treatment.
Some degree of hearing loss is natural as we age, but other factors can lead to hearing changes, as well. Excessive exposure to loud noise, impacted earwax, chronic ear infections and certain medications can all contribute to (or speed up) hearing loss. Regular hearing exams can help spot these issues before they get worse, so you can modify your hearing care plan to fit your evolving needs.
Adults aren’t the only ones who benefit from regular hearing screenings. Most newborns are screened at birth, but these tests aren’t always effective at detecting a hearing problem. In addition, some conditions develop or worsen in the first months of life. Hearing plays a crucial role in a child’s language and social skills development; catching a problem early provides an opportunity to treat the condition sooner rather than later, allowing the child to develop at a normal rate alongside his or her peers.
Teens and young adults also shouldn’t overlook hearing tests, either. Studies show that hearing loss is affecting younger and younger people all the time, thanks in large part to the explosion in popularity of personal music devices and ear buds. Together, these are a dangerous combination when music is played at excessive volume levels. Hearing tests offer the opportunity for early detection, as well as a chance to educate this segment of the population on proper usage of these devices.
Hearing exams are quick, painless and perfectly safe. They allow us to protect one of our most valuable attributes, our sense of hearing. It makes no sense to delay – schedule an appointment to have your hearing checked today!