Hearing loss can happen at any age but is more likely to occur as people age. Some forms of hearing loss are progressive. When caught early, treatment can slow the progression to preserve the patient's hearing for as long as possible. Learning about the possible causes of hearing loss is essential. A hearing test reveals the hearing loss and helps doctors develop a treatment plan.

Signs of Hearing Loss

People can experience multiple symptoms when hearing loss begins. At first, the signs may be so minor they are unnoticeable. As time goes on, the symptoms can worsen. If you notice the following signs, seek a hearing test near me. 

• Speech sounds muffled, and following conversations is difficult. 
• High-pitched sounds, such as doorbells, telephones, and alarm clocks, become difficult to hear. 
• People experience difficulty understanding speech over the phone.
• Individuals will often find themselves asking people to repeat what they just said. 
• People with hearing loss will find it challenging to keep up with conversations in loud environments. 
• Those with hearing loss may also turn up the television or radio much louder than usual. 
• People will often experience ringing in their ears and hypersensitivity to some sounds. 

These symptoms indicate there is likely some degree of hearing loss. Hearing loss will worsen over time. Doctors need to conduct a hearing test to determine the level and type of hearing loss.

What Is Involved in a Hearing Test?

Doctors perform multiple steps when carrying out a hearing test. Each part of the testing procedure allows the doctor to diagnose patients and determine their level of hearing loss so they can seek treatment. 

• The doctor will perform a physical examination. Examining the internal structures of the ears reveals information on what could be causing hearing loss. Infection and earwax buildup can both cause hearing issues. 
• Whisper tests are a part of general screening tests that measure the patient's level of hearing. The doctor may have the patient cover one ear and whisper into the other to determine issues with hearing. 
• Audiometer testing is one of the most thorough options for hearing loss screening.  Patients wear headphones during this test, as the audiologist plays sounds in both ears at different times and volumes. The goal is to see how well the patient hears the lowest tones. 

The doctor will reveal the results after this testing to help patients understand their hearing loss and the options for treatment. Treatment will depend on the reason for hearing loss and its degree. 

Doctors can correct some forms of hearing loss with surgery. Surgeons will correct abnormalities of the eardrum and bones. There are also hearing aids available. These devices are more advanced and comfortable than in the past. Hearing aids help people hear without issue. 

See Your Hearing Specialist Today

Healthy individuals between the ages of 18 and 40 without signs of hearing loss should seek testing every three to five years. Those who are older or have the symptoms of hearing loss will need testing more frequently. 

When was the last time you had a hearing test done? Those experiencing the symptoms above should schedule a hearing test to learn what is causing their hearing loss. Hearing tests reveal a lot about your hearing. With testing, doctors can offer the right treatments to preserve hearing.