There are a few common reasons your doctor may recommend a hearing test. You may be experiencing symptoms like muffled hearing, ringing in your ears, or needing to turn up the TV louder than normal. A hearing test can help identify the cause.
Hearing tests are also often part of routine physical exams, especially for older adults. Some degree of age-related hearing loss is common as we get older. Regular hearing tests allow early detection of any issues.
Finally, hearing tests may be required for specific jobs, school programmes, or military service. This testing ensures you can hear well enough to safely perform required duties.
The Testing Process:
Hearing tests are quick, non-invasive procedures. They are usually performed by an audiologist in a quiet, soundproof room. You will sit in a chair and wear headphones during the test.
The audiologist will first go through your medical history, ask about any hearing difficulties, and examine your ears. Then the real testing begins.
You will hear a variety of quiet and loud tones at different pitches through the headphones. When you detect a tone, you indicate this by raising your hand or pressing a button. The audiologist alters the tones and watches your responses.
The test varies the frequency and intensity of sounds in each ear to map your full range of hearing. Some tones may seem quite faint, but it’s important to respond even if you barely hear them. Don’t worry about making mistakes. Just listen carefully and respond honestly.
The whole process usually takes 15-30 minutes. Some additional speech tests may be performed to assess your ability to understand conversations.
Test Results:
The results of your hearing test will reveal how well you hear a range of sound frequencies at different volumes. Any areas of hearing loss will be identified.
Results fall into the normal range or varying degrees of hearing loss. Mild hearing loss may just mean you need to turn up the TV more. More significant hearing loss can make conversations difficult without hearing aids.
The pattern and degree of hearing loss provide clues to the underlying cause. Your audiologist will explain your results and recommend any needed follow-up. Further testing may be needed depending on the findings.
If hearing aids are recommended, your audiologist from www.hearclearni.co.uk can guide you through the options. Hearing aid technology has advanced tremendously in recent years.
Coping with Hearing Loss:
Being diagnosed with hearing loss can be upsetting at first. But it is an important step toward improving your hearing and communication.
Hearing aids and other assistive devices make a huge difference for many people. Even mild hearing loss can be helped with amplification.
Beyond hearing aids, there are many communication strategies and technologies that can help. Sitting close to speakers, reducing background noise, using captioning, and asking for clarification are just a few examples.
With time and practice, you can adapt. Make the most of your remaining hearing. Stay patient, positive, and proactive. The adjustment process takes time, but you will learn to manage hearing challenges.
Focus on the benefits of identifying any issues early. Hearing tests allow problems to be addressed before they potentially worsen. Look forward to the improvements coming your way.
Disclaimer:
CBD:
Qrius does not provide medical advice.
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act) outlaws the recreational use of cannabis products in India. CBD oil, manufactured under a license issued by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, can be legally used in India for medicinal purposes only with a prescription, subject to specific conditions. Kindly refer to the legalities here.
The information on this website is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Gambling:
As per the Public Gambling Act of 1867, all Indian states, except Goa, Daman, and Sikkim, prohibit gambling. Land-based casinos are legalized in Goa and Daman under the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976. In Sikkim, land-based casinos, online gambling, and e-gaming (games of chance) are legalized under the Sikkim Online Gaming (Regulation) Rules 2009. Only some Indian states have legalized online/regular lotteries, subject to state laws. Refer to the legalities here. Horse racing and betting on horse racing, including online betting, is permitted only in licensed premises in select states. Refer to the 1996 Supreme Court judgment for more information.
This article does not endorse or express the views of Qrius and/or its staff.