Hearing loss is a common medical concern that can affect people of all ages. If you’re experiencing any hearing challenges, it’s important to see an audiologist and have your hearing tested.
Hearing tests can determine the type and severity of your hearing loss accurately. By knowing what kind of hearing loss you have, it will be easier for you and your audiologist to find the right treatment and management options.
Understanding Your Hearing Loss
Getting your hearing tested is the most basic step to understanding your hearing loss. There are many types of hearing tests available, and an audiologist will be the best person to know what type of tests to perform depending on your main complaint.
Hearing tests measure your ability to hear different frequencies and volumes of sound. Based on the results, your audiologist can determine the type of hearing loss you have and create a personalized treatment and management plan.
Why It’s Important To Work With An Audiologist
It’s essential to seek the expertise of an audiologist if you need to have your hearing tested. Audiologists have specialized training in diagnosing and treating hearing loss and balance disorders.
Additionally, audiologists have access to state-of-the-art equipment and can provide accurate and reliable hearing tests that no other online test can provide.
In addition to conducting hearing tests, audiologists can provide counseling and education about hearing loss, including how to adjust to new hearing aids or how to prevent further damage to your hearing.
Audiologists are also trained and licensed to fit and program hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive listening devices. Some audiologists also specialize in providing tinnitus management strategies.
Are online hearing tests reliable and accurate?
You may be tempted to take an online hearing test to determine the type of hearing loss you may have. While online hearing tests may seem accessible and convenient, they’re not as reliable or accurate as hearing tests provided by audiologists.
Traditional hearing tests done in an audiology clinic require you to sit in a sound-controlled environment, such as a soundproof room or booth. Meanwhile, online hearing tests cannot control the sound environment and the equipment used for the test. These “quick and easy” hearing tests available online may not also be able to detect certain types of hearing loss.
Generally, it may be a good detector of any presence of hearing loss, but, at the end of the day, if you need a more accurate hearing evaluation, a hearing test from an audiologist would be your best choice..
Three Types of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is categorized into three major types: conductive sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss can be caused by earwax buildup, ear infections, and physical abnormalities in the middle ear or ear canal.
Sensorineural hearing is typically linked to aging, sudden or prolonged exposure to loud noises, and certain medications. Hearing aids are the most common solution for sensorineural hearing loss.
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
By identifying your specific type of hearing loss, a more personalized management plan can be achieved to address your unique requirements.
Audiologists and Hearing Aids in New Albany, IN
If you’re experiencing any hearing challenges, we recommend that you get your hearing tested by an audiologist. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help for your hearing concerns, you’ll be glad you did because getting the appropriate intervention can make a big difference in your quality of life.
If you are for a trusted audiologist in New Albany, IN, give us a call at Doctors Hearing Care.
We look forward to being part of your hearing success!