Hearing loss is often a problem that we never think about, until we are directly affected by it. We may know someone with hearing loss, but never think that it might actually affect us someday, until it does! The problem with hearing loss is that it can be pretty gradual and sneaky; it takes about a decade before a person finally realizes they have a hearing problem that needs treatment. If you suspect that you may have some sort of hearing loss, do not delay, since early diagnosis provides the most promising results.
Start off with getting a hearing exam from a certified audiologist. Do not use online hearing exams since these are not as thorough as hearing exams conducted by a qualified hearing care professional. Find an audiologist whom you can trust and get your hearing examined professionally.
There are plenty of audiologists out there. How do you know which one to choose? Consider opting for an audiologist who is more person-centered and places their client’s needs above their own commercial ones. It is important for you to like your audiologist since this will make it easier for you to communicate your needs with your audiologist. Choose one who is friendly and helpful, which is why it is best to opt for someone who has a percent-centered work ethic.
Preferably, ask a hearing-impaired friend or loved one to provide you with a referral, or search for reviews on the internet before choosing your audiologist. Make sure the audiologist you seek help from is certified, well-qualified and has sufficient work experience dealing with your specific category of hearing impairment.
Do not be afraid to experiment with different types of hearing aids before you find your perfect match. You may not always like the first pair you get, which is why many hearing aid dispensers have a 30-day money-back policy. If you do not find your perfect one the first time around, keep trying until you find the one you are most comfortable with. Do not be shy to share your concerns and queries with your audiologist. You will be wearing your hearing aids for the rest of your life, so it is best to pick a pair that you feel most at ease with.
Wearing hearing aids for the first time can be a disconcerting experience as you begin to hear sounds you had forgotten you could hear. Attend follow up sessions with your audiologist to make sure they can adjust your hearing aids with your unique hearing needs. Remember that it can take some time to get used to hearing these new sounds with your hearing aids, so give yourself time and be patient with yourself. Wear your hearing aids with increasing frequency each day to help transition into wearing them long-term.
People often have unrealistic expectations about hearing aids. Unfortunately, hearing loss is a permanent condition, so your hearing will never quite be the same as it used to be before your hearing loss. Hearing aids are after all electronic devices, which do not provide a completely organic hearing experience. Rather, they provide an efficient substitute which can be efficient and takes some getting used to. Once you keep this in mind, you will not have too much of a problem adjusting with your new hearing aids.
You do not have to go through hearing loss alone. Get your loved ones and close friends on board and talk to them about your hearing needs. Seek help from online support groups or from peer organizations such as Hearing Loss Association of America. Once you gain more perspective through interaction with other hearing impaired individuals, you will be able to get the support you need to help you through your journey with hearing damage.