What Are the Symptoms of Hearing Loss?

Wondering if you could benefit from hearing aids?

Are you dealing with hearing loss? Have a family member who is having trouble hearing? If so, you’ll want to turn to a hearing specialist who can provide you with the care and treatment you need to become part of the conversation again. Of course, it’s natural to have questions about getting hearing aids, including whether they could benefit you. This is something that our Port St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Fort Pierce, FL, otolaryngologists Dr. Leslie Berghash, Dr. John Lanza, and Dr. Camysha Wright can help you determine.

What are the symptoms of hearing loss?

Hearing loss isn’t always apparent. Hearing loss is often gradual, which means that these symptoms can sneak up on us over time. You may have hearing loss if,

  • You have to turn up the volume on the TV or phone to hear what’s being said
  • People complain about the volume of the TV or radio
  • You often ask “huh?” or need people to repeat themselves
  • You find yourself reading lips rather than listening to what’s being said
  • You have trouble understanding people in loud environments (e.g., busy restaurants)
  • You are experiencing ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • People around you often sound like they are mumbling

When should I turn to an otolaryngologist for a hearing screening?

Suppose you are experiencing any of the above signs of hearing loss. In that case, it’s a good idea to call our Port St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Fort Pierce, FL, practice to schedule a hearing evaluation. The sooner hearing loss is detected, the sooner we can treat the problem with hearing aids and prevent it from getting worse.

Will a hearing aid restore my hearing?

It’s important to understand that a hearing aid will make it easier to hear people, but it is not designed to restore your hearing. Furthermore, a hearing aid will not prevent your hearing loss from getting worse.

Should I wear a hearing aid in both ears?

Often, both ears are affected by hearing loss. When this occurs, it’s a good idea to wear a hearing aid in both ears. This can be particularly helpful for being able to better hear people in loud environments and locate the source and direction of the sound.

How long will it take to get used to my hearing aid?

This will depend on several factors, including how quickly you sought treatment for your hearing loss. It will take time to retrain the central auditory system and the brain. The more often you wear your hearing aid, the sooner your ears and brain will get accustomed to the device. Give your new hearing aid 60 days before deciding whether you may need a different kind.

If you want to learn more about hearing aids and how they could benefit your health and quality of life, call South Coast Ear, Nose & Throat in Port St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Fort Pierce, FL, today at (772) 398-9911, (772) 464-6055 or (863) 357-7791.