Hearing Health Questions Explained: Audiologist’s Top 5 FAQs
In this article, Cameron Glazier, a seasoned Audiologist specializing in diagnosing and treating hearing loss, shares the top 5 hearing health questions he frequently receives at his clinic in Lawrence Plaza.
Whether you’re navigating your own journey with hearing loss or curious about hearing health, Cameron’s responses provide invaluable insights into the world of audiology.
Top 5 Hearing Health Questions
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What is involved in a hearing test? How do you check for hearing loss?
A hearing test comprises three primary components. The initial phase is known as the case history or patient discovery. Here, the goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the patient’s hearing challenges affect various aspects of their life. We also review their medical history meticulously to ensure we capture all relevant details.
Next comes the hearing assessment, beginning with video otoscopy. This procedure involves using a video camera to project the patient’s ear canal and eardrum onto a screen, allowing both the Audiologist and patient to observe together. It’s a crucial step in identifying any significant build-up of wax or abnormalities in the eardrum.
Then we conduct the actual hearing test, aiming to establish the patient’s threshold for hearing across various pitches and frequencies. Additionally, we assess their ability to discern single words, providing insight into how effectively their brain processes auditory information.
Finally, we evaluate their hearing in noisy settings by having them repeat sentences amidst background noise. We also typically assess eardrum mobility, gauging the movement of the eardrums to ensure optimal function.
Once we have all this information, we review the results together. We want to make sure the patient understands what their hearing loss looks like, what it means, and how it affects all areas of their life.
If hearing loss is detected, we offer the patient the opportunity to try on a pair of hearing aids. This allows them to experience firsthand the difference modern hearing aids can make.
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What causes hearing loss?
There are many different reasons why hearing loss might be present. The only way to get an accurate diagnosis is to perform an in-depth hearing assessment.
The most common type of hearing loss is presbycusis, a fancy word for “age-related” hearing loss. Over time, tiny hair cells in our ears break down and stop functioning as they should. This degradation of hair cells often leads to our auditory nerve not getting enough stimulus to send a correct signal to the brain.
Other causes of hearing loss that we commonly see include:
- Wax buildup in the ear canal
- Eardrum perforation
- Middle ear pressure buildup due to a cold or allergies
- Acoustic neuroma (rare cases)
If a patient also notices sudden, significant change in hearing in one ear, it’s crucial to seek prompt attention from a hearing healthcare professional as untreated sudden sensorineural hearing loss can result in permanent hearing impairment for some individuals.
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How much do hearing aids cost?
The cost of a pair of hearing aids ranges from $2,500 – $6,200. The price range is impacted by many things, including your specific level of hearing loss, lifestyle requirements, level of hearing aid technology, and additional features like Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeable capabilities.
We also offer 0% financing and there are many government programs available to help support patients making this important investment in their lives.
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How do I know if hearing aids will work for me, and which ones are the best?
Following your test results, your healthcare provider will make a professional hearing aid recommendation based on everything you have covered during your appointment. This is also a great time to try on different models and hearing aid types. This flexibility allows patients to make a more informed decision and feel confident about their choice.
We also offer a 90-day guarantee to help ensure that your hearing aid is just right for you.
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What happens with hearing loss over time that is left untreated?
Studies have been published showing a correlation between untreated hearing loss and cognitive issues, such as dementia. The best thing we can do for our cognitive health is to ensure we are hearing properly and that the brain is being stimulated.
Untreated hearing loss leads to social isolation,
leaving individuals feeling disconnected. This lack of communication and mental stimulation can negatively impact cognitive function. Many of my patients, after getting their hearing aids, often say, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
My best advice is to be proactive and make a positive change for your health and your cognition.
Address Your Hearing Health Questions and Schedule an Appointment with Hearing Solutions
By being proactive and following this advice, you can help safeguard your hearing health for the long term, benefiting both you and your loved ones. Protecting your hearing will help you stay healthy, safe, and happy, so don’t wait – schedule your next appointment today! For personalized support and expert care, contact Hearing Solutions to book an appointment.
Contact Hearing Solutions at 1-888-811-9799 to book your free appointment. You can also book hearing loss appointments online.
