McGuires Hearing Aids and Audiological Services reminds readers that Better Hearing Month is an ideal time to consider getting a hearing screening. We suggest that readers visit a reputable hearing provider, since most of the time, screenings are free of charge.
Sometimes it's difficult to know whether there is a true hearing loss or not. You may have a hearing loss if you:
- require frequent repetition.
- have difficulty following conversations involving more than 2 people.
- think that other people sound like they're mumbling.
- experience difficulty hearing in noisy public situations.
- have trouble hearing children and women.
- turn up the volume on your TV or radio.
- answer or respond inappropriately in conversations.
- have ringing in your ears.
- read lips or more intently watch people's faces when they speak with you.
Increasing the odds that you may have a hearing loss are these additional factors. You:
- have a family history of hearing loss.
- take medications that can harm the hearing system (ototoxic drugs).
- have diabetes, heart, circulation or thyroid problems.
- have been exposed to very loud sounds over a long period or single
- exposure to explosive noise.
A loss in hearing is more than an inconvenience. It often results in a breakdown in relationships, withdrawal from social situations, and even depression.
Hearing plays a big part in social and emotional connections to the outside world. And since we are adaptive creatures, we adapt our techniques to accommodate the loss of one of our senses – many times, without realizing it.
If you suspect you have a hearing loss, contact your local hearing provider – or the staff at McGuire's Hearing – and ask for a free hearing screening.
