If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the following early signs of hearing loss or tinnitus, it's important to see a hearing healthcare specialist sooner rather than later:
1. Noises in Your Ears or Head
Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Left untreated, it can worsen over time. Tinnitus can disrupt your sleep, cause headaches, and increase stress and frustration. Even if you don’t notice any issues with your hearing, or if you think the ringing is causing difficulties hearing, it’s crucial to get it checked out.
2. Difficulty Hearing Others
Struggling to follow conversations can be frustrating and embarrassing. When you frequently 'smile and nod' without really understanding, it can make others think you're getting old. Addressing hearing loss can help you stay engaged and confident in social situations.
3. Memory Issues
Hearing loss can significantly increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Even mild hearing loss can raise the risk of dementia by 200%. Signs that hearing loss and tinnitus might be impacting your memory include:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Challenges in planning or problem-solving
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Problems identifying words and names
- Misplacing things
- Difficulty retracing steps
- Withdrawal from others
- Changes in mood and personality
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s time to take action.
When to Seek Help
The first comprehensive audiology exam should occur at 45 years of age, according to the National Institutes of Health. Early and periodic exams can help you avoid the serious consequences of untreated hearing loss, such as increased costs and diminished quality of life.
Waiting to treat hearing loss can lead to more severe issues and higher costs down the line. We often tell patients, “the time for treatment is yesterday!” An initial exam can help guide sensible decisions about future treatment.
A 2022 study revealed that the average 60-year-old with self-identified "normal" hearing has already lost 46% of the neural connections from ear to brain. This means their auditory system is operating at only 56% capacity before they even notice a hearing loss (Grant, et al JAMA 2022).
Our Commitment to You
We are not in the business of treating hearing loss for people who do not need it. Our offices are dedicated to helping people and their families get the right medical treatment for hearing loss and tinnitus if needed. We provide accurate information about the reasons for your hearing loss and tinnitus and discuss your treatment options.
Every adult with hearing loss and tinnitus needs treatment, but not all treatments are equal. We will work with you to determine the best options for your needs without compromising on care. If your top priority is getting the best care and results, we look forward to seeing you in our office soon.