Learn the first steps to take if you’ve started experiencing hearing loss.
When a person begins to notice their own hearing loss symptoms, it can come as a surprise. It’s important to remember, first and foremost, that you’re not alone: hearing loss is common, and it affects people of all ages. Globally, over 1.5 billion people live with some degree of hearing loss.
Those statistics mean there’s plenty of information available about hearing loss and knowing what steps to take if and when you start noticing your own symptoms. Hearing health is part of your overall health, so focusing on your health and well-being is important.
Here are the top seven things to do when you first start experiencing hearing loss symptoms:
- See an audiologist
- Educate yourself on hearing loss
- Take steps to reduce loud noise exposure
- Find a support system
- Make lifestyle changes
- Consider hearing aids or assistive technology
- Seek counseling
Let’s learn about these steps below!
See an audiologist
This should be your first step when you start to realize you’re experiencing hearing loss symptoms. A hearing healthcare provider like an audiologist can do a full evaluation of your hearing and provide a range of possible treatment options. This will help determine the type and degree of your hearing loss and provide you with a baseline for future tests. Your hearing health professional can also recommend options for assistive listening devices and hearing aids, should you choose to use them.
Educate yourself on hearing loss
Once you’ve made your audiologist appointment, it’s time to do your research and come up with a list of questions to ask them. Taking the time to research hearing loss can help you understand your condition better and make it easier to decide on the best treatment options for your needs.
Check out some of our recommended research resources here, including local groups, blogs and magazines, and more.
Take steps to reduce loud noise exposure
Hearing loss is a spectrum, and if you’re only just starting to notice it, it may be mild. That makes it extra critical to avoid doing further damage. If you work in a loud environment or engage in noisy recreational activities, it’s important to protect your hearing. Wear earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, and try to be aware of your surroundings and the level of noise you’re exposed to.
Here are some more practical hearing protection tips to help.
Find a support system
Having a strong support network is essential when living with hearing loss. It can be helpful to find a group of friends or family members who can provide support and understanding throughout your experience with hearing loss. Let them know what to expect and how they can help you manage your hearing loss. You may want to consider finding a hearing loss support group in your area as well.
Make lifestyle changes
Making certain lifestyle changes can help you manage your hearing loss more effectively. You can try cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, make sure you’re getting enough sleep, and talk to your healthcare provider about eating a more balanced diet. With your doctor’s approval, you can also try out a regular exercise routine or movement like walking or dancing.
All of these can help improve your overall health and reduce the impact of hearing loss. Plus, try to form good habits like adjusting the volume of your television and radio, reducing background noise, and using hearing protection when needed.
Consider hearing aids or assistive technology
If you have a significant degree of hearing loss, hearing aids may be a good option for you. Hearing aids can be great tools that make it easier to participate in everyday activities. If you’re interested in giving hearing aids a try, talk to your audiologist and check out our roundup post on all things hearing aids here.
If you have trouble hearing in everyday situations, such as watching television, assistive technology like a neckloop or headset may be helpful. If hearing loss makes phone calls difficult, consider a CapTel phone that captions what your caller says, allowing you to read what you cannot hear.
Seek counseling
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with your hearing loss, professional counseling can be a fantastic resource as well. A counselor can help you process your feelings and develop strategies for coping with hearing loss. Like with any life change, it’s essential to care for your mental health and do what you can to smooth the edges of your fears and doubts.
If you’re noticing any hearing loss symptoms, it’s important to take action and get your hearing tested as soon as possible. Following these steps can help you take control of your hearing health and protect yourself from further hearing loss. Hearing loss doesn’t have to stop you from living life to the fullest — it just adds a few more considerations into the mix.
For more hearing loss-related information and insights, stay tuned to the CapTel blog!
