Hearing loss is common as you get older, especially if you have an occupation where you're exposed to loud noises. The best way to determine if you have hearing loss and what you can do about it is to see an audiologist. If you've never been before, you may be wondering what to expect. Here's an overview of a visit to an audiologist.
Your Ears Are Examined
The audiologist examines your ears with a scope to look for any abnormalities that could affect your hearing. For example, if you have ear wax built up or a growth in your ear, your hearing may be blocked or muffled. In addition to assessing the physical condition of your ears, the audiologist will also ask about your history. He or she will want to know about any medical conditions that affected your ears including a history of frequent ear infections. In addition, you'll be asked about your exposure to loud noises at work or during your leisure time since prolonged exposure to very loud noises can have an effect on your hearing.
Your Ear Drum Is Tested
A test of your eardrum, called a tympanometry, may also be done. This determines how well your eardrum responds to the pressure of vibrations. This test can assess the condition of your middle ear and provide an indication of infections or fluid in your eustachian tube or middle ear.
Your Hearing Is Tested
One of the most important tests you'll undergo is a hearing test. These are carried out in different ways, but in general, you'll be asked to press a button or respond in some way when you hear a tone from a machine. This test pinpoints your hearing limit in the upper and lower frequencies. The results of this test are important in helping the audiologist recommend the right hearing aid if you need one.
Another type of test is where you repeat a word you hear spoken. This test is important because it determines how well you can understand speech. Sometimes when you have hearing loss, you can hear volume fine but you can't distinguish the sounds well enough to understand speech. This is another problem that can be corrected with the right hearing aid.
Once all of these tests are complete, you'll be given the results so you can see how well your hearing matches to the normal range. This helps you understand why you may have difficulty hearing speech in a crowded setting or why you need to play the television so loud. With this information, your audiologist can recommend a hearing aid or refer you to a doctor for treatment of an infection or other medical condition if that is indicated. For more information, contact companies like Audiology Consultants, P.C.
Ever since I was a young girl, I have had bad asthma and allergies. I had to stay in the hospital several times when I was in elementary school just to help get my asthma under control and it seemed like I was trying medication after medication with little success. I don't remember all of my childhood health details, since I was so young, but my mother has "filled in the blanks" for me. Thanks to modern medicine and a natural remedy, my health conditions are currently under control and have been for a few years now. I am very grateful for my good health, and I want to "pay it back" to others by creating a blog where I will post my health tips. I hope I can help you learn how to achieve good health!