When to See an Audiologist

Did you know that one of the most common health issues in the US is hearing loss? It’s also the leading workplace injury that people develop, particularly in the construction and manufacturing industries. Plus, it can be something that is there from birth; it’s so common that babies are tested almost as soon as they are born to determine whether hearing loss is something they have or not. 

With hearing loss being so prevalent in society, you might think it would be a simple thing to know when you need to see an audiologist. Surely it would just be something you do when you notice your hearing isn’t as good as it once was? The truth is that hearing loss often happens very gradually, so gradually in fact that it can be very difficult to tell that it’s happening. However, there are some signs to look out for that will help you know when to see an audiologist for assistance with your hearing; read on to find out what they are. 

An Annual Check-Up

Your health is important, of course, and that’s why we know we should make regular appointments with our general doctors, with our optometrists and with our dentists. Yet we often forget about doing the same thing with an audiologist, and instead, we wait until there is an issue that we want them to look into. 

One of the best things you can do when it comes to your hearing health is to schedule an annual check-up visit with your audiologist. In this way, the audiologist can pick up any decline in your hearing well before you notice it yourself and they can do more to help when your hearing loss is spotted early. 

You Notice Hearing Loss 

Another reason to see an audiologist is if you do notice that you have developed some kind of hearing loss. As we’ve said, it’s not always an easy thing to spot when it happens slowly, but there are some things you can look out for that might give you a clue that there is something amiss. If you are increasing the volume on your TV regularly, or you have to ask people to repeat what they are saying or you have trouble hearing when you’re in a crowded place, then it’s wise to book an appointment with your audiologist to get checked out. 

Blockages 

Earwax is a helpful thing. It protects the inner ear from unwanted items entering it, and it even ensures the ear canal stays moisturized. On top of this, it’s even able to clean itself, preventing infections. 

Unfortunately, earwax can cause blockages within the ear from time to time, and when this happens, it’s best to see an audiologist. Although you can purchase over-the-counter medication that says it will dislodge earwax, this might not be ideal since it can remove too much, opening your ears up to infection. It’s best just to book an appointment with an expert instead, as they will be able to remove any blockages without causing any harm.