WS Audiology

How Can I Tell If I Have a Hearing Problem?

The best way to determine if you have a hearing deficit is to be tested. Symptoms of hearing loss may include:

• Raising the volume on your stereo or TV higher than is comfortable for others in your family
• Asking others to repeat themselves
• Having difficulty in hearing others, especially when there is a lot of background noise (such as at a party)
• Having difficulty hearing movies, theatrical performances, or speeches
• Relying on a spouse, child, or friend to repeat what others have said
• Having ringing in your ears

If you have any of these symptoms, you probably should seek hearing testing. Don't be embarrassed about having your hearing checked. After all, you probably think nothing of getting your eyes examined. Missing out on conversation and socialization because you can't hear is just as inconvenient as poor vision.

How Often Should I be Tested?

According to Michele Hartlove, executive director of Better Hearing Institute (BHI), "Once a year is preferable, but realistically, at least every other year. And, as you age, your hearing should be checked more often." Hartlove also suggests that children should have a hearing test no later than age three. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you have your child tested for hearing loss at birth before hospital discharge, or at the latest by one month of age. Babies who do not pass screening need further evaluation and careful follow-up. Newborn hearing testing is mandatory in many states.

What Should I Do If I Suspect a Hearing Problem?

Don't ignore a hearing problem. In some cases, the problem can be easily fixed. If you have an infection or tumor as the cause of your hearing problem, waiting too long can reduce your likelihood of full and rapid recovery. And the longer you wait, the harder it will be to solve the problem with a hearing aid. If you suspect a hearing problem, schedule a check-up with a hearing specialist.

How Can I Protect My Hearing?

Daily Noise

The noise pollution of modern society is an increasing cause of hearing loss. Though all noise can't be avoided, its effects can be minimized. Start by keeping your TV and stereo at a low or moderate level, especially if you're wearing headphones.

• One tip: If you can't hear yourself speak without raising your voice while wearing headphones, they're probably too loud. If your work (eg, operating loud machinery) or hobbies (eg, hunting, target shooting, playing in a band) subject you to loud noise, wear ear plugs or a protective ear covering. As Hartlove points out, "You can wear earplugs at a concert and still enjoy the music."

Healthy Habits

Watch your health, but especially your blood pressure and cholesterol level . Any decrease in blood supply can damage the oxygen- and nutrient-sensitive fibers in your ear, resulting in high-frequency hearing loss.

Clean Out the Wax

Don't let inner ear wax build up. But, avoid using ear swabs inside your ear canal. Doing so can actually exacerbate the problem by pushing ear wax farther down the canal. Swabbing inside the ear canal can also cause damage to your middle or inner ear. Instead, use ear drops or an ear wash. You may want to have your doctor assist you in keeping your ear canals free of wax.

Ear Exams

Have regular ear examinations once per year. Schedule a hearing exam if you suspect you have or are developing a hearing problem.