Having Your Hearing Tested

It is a sad reality that our hearing does not get the amount of attention it requires, until it is gone. In routine medical check-ups, our hearing isn’t even tested. This is why it may be prudent to take our hearing health into our own hands and have our hearing tested periodically. Hearing loss brings with it a host of other medical problems that we can do without, thus early diagnosis and intervention gives us the best results.

People who have hearing loss often take over a decade to have their hearing tested, and even longer to finally opt for hearing aids. By this time, they may already encounter several other medical costs that may be directly or indirectly related to hearing loss.

People with hearing loss are at a higher risk of sustaining injuries due to falling. They also have higher chances of developing dementia or cardiovascular disease. Hearing loss has also been known to result in depression and anxiety in people due to increased social isolation. These are just some of the health issues related to hearing loss. With so many health risks, it is prudent to get your hearing tested periodically.

As infants, newborns are screened for any form of hearing loss after birth in the hospital itself. After this point, it is important to have hearing exams conducted every two years from the age of 6 onwards until the time they reach their teenage years. For teenagers, it is recommended that hearing tests be conducted each time they go in for routine medical check-ups.

For adults aged from 18 to 45, hearing exams should be conducted once in five years. After the age of 50, you should get your hearing checked every two years.

Even if you find that you are not in the designated check-up year, it is imperative that you get your hearing tested if you have difficulty hearing. If you feel that sounds are muffled or you have trouble hearing properly, get your hearing tested as soon as possible. Some forms of hearing loss can be treated easily, such as too much earwax or ear infections. Other forms of permanent hearing loss require the use of hearing aids in order to be rectified. Being mindful of the amount of time you spend exposed to loud noises and taking precautions by using earplugs can help you protect your hearing. Always practice safe listening skills and encourage others to do the same so that you can enjoy your favorite sounds for all your years to come.