5 signs you need a hearing test

April 12, 2023

Do you find yourself repeatedly asking people to repeat themselves, or having difficulty understanding in noisy environments? Do your family and friends sound like they’re mumbling more often than not? If so, it may be time for a hearing test. Hearing loss is more common than many think—approximately 1 in 6 of us in the UK have some degree of hearing loss. But even if you’re younger, identifying when it might be time for a hearing test could help catch any problems with your ears before they worsen.


At Harrold Opticians, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy hearing, and our team of experienced audiologists provides you with personalised care and support. We offer a range of hearing services, including comprehensive hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and ongoing care and support.

Our goal is to help you maintain your hearing health and improve your quality of life. With our state-of-the-art equipment and compassionate care, we'll work with you to find the best solution for your unique hearing needs. We're here to help you hear better and live better. In this blog post, we'll discuss 5 key signs that suggest it's time to visit an audiologist for a professional evaluation.




DIFFICULTY HEARING CONVERSATIONS

One of the most common signs that indicate you may need a hearing test is difficulty hearing conversations. If you find yourself frequently asking others to repeat themselves or turning up the volume on the television or radio, it's time to schedule an appointment with an audiologist. At Harrold Opticians, our team of audiologists will perform a comprehensive hearing evaluation to determine the extent of your hearing loss and recommend the best course of action.


TINNITUS

Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ears that can be caused by a variety of factors, including hearing loss. If you're experiencing tinnitus, it's important to get a hearing test to determine the underlying cause.


FAMILY HISTORY OF HEARING LOSS

If you have a family history of hearing loss, you may be at a higher risk of developing hearing loss yourself. It's important to get a hearing test to monitor your hearing health and catch any potential issues early.


DIFFICULTY HEARING IN NOISY ENVIRONMENTS

Do you find it challenging to hear in noisy environments, such as restaurants or crowded public spaces? If so, it's time to schedule a hearing test. At Harrold Opticians, we offer a range of solutions that can help improve your ability to hear in noisy environments and enhance your overall hearing experience.


FATIGUE OR STRESS FROM LISTENING

If you find yourself feeling fatigued or stressed after prolonged listening, it may be a sign of hearing loss. Straining to hear conversations or sounds can put a significant amount of stress on your brain, leading to exhaustion or frustration. Getting a hearing test can help you identify any underlying hearing issues and alleviate these symptoms.



Hearing is essential for your health and quality of life


Did you know? Using hearing aids can help reduce your risk of dementia.


It is common for people to develop gradual hearing loss as they age. As hearing loss progresses, it can cause people to become increasingly frustrated and socially isolated.


A study has shown that untreated hearing loss is associated with a greater risk of developing dementia. The study found that the risk of developing dementia with untreated hearing loss was as follows:

  • Mild hearing loss = 2x more likely
  • Moderate hearing loss = 3x more likely
  • Severe hearing loss = 5x more likely

While no hearing aids can cure dementia or restore your hearing, they do help in keeping your brain healthy. Wearing hearing aids makes it easier to communicate and participate in social activities. Social activities help to stimulate your brain and help to decrease the risk of accelerated mental decline related to untreated hearing loss.


Taking good care of your hearing is the key to maintaining an active intellectual and social life.

 


Facts about hearing loss


  • 1 in 6 of us in the UK have some form of hearing loss
  • By 2035, this will increase to 1 in 5
  • 8 million of these are aged 60 and over
  • 6.7 million could benefit from hearing aids but only about 2 million people use them
  • People tend to wait on average 10 years before seeking help for changes in their hearing


It's never too late to make small changes that enhance your life experience so that you can hear better.


At Harrold Opticians, we believe that everyone deserves access to the highest quality hearing care. Our team of dedicated audiologists is committed to helping you find the best solution for your unique hearing needs. We offer a range of services, including hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and ongoing care and support, to help you maintain healthy hearing and improve your overall quality of life.


We understand that hearing loss can be a challenging and isolating experience, but you don't have to face it alone. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will be with you every step of the way, providing you with compassionate care and support. We're here to help you hear better and live better.


So, if you're experiencing any of the signs of hearing loss, don't wait any longer to schedule a hearing test. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of preventing further hearing loss and related health issues


Don't waste any more time, book your hearing test today.


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