Should you have your hearing checked? Have you almost always had a bit of trouble hearing effectively, or is this a recent problem? Whether this issue has been ongoing or seems to be developing of late, it might be wise to get your hearing checked.
Difficulty hearing is actually quite common. One in five people suffer from hearing loss. Hearing loss is also something that is not limited to older people. Children and young people are also affected by problems with their hearing, which results in the need for pediatric hearing tests.
Hearing exam cost?
Hearing exams are relatively inexpensive, and most insurances will cover the entire cost (Medicare covers 80%). Most insurances do have a co-pay out of pocket expense. It is recommended that you consult with an audiologist (doctor of hearing), who has the proper training to accurately test your hearing and diagnosis your hearing loss. Please keep in mind that Medicare and most insurances do not cover the cost of hearing aids.
When should I have my hearing examined?
If you find yourself doing one or more the following:
- Straining to hear during conversations
- Have the TV set loudly
- Notice that people mumble often
- Have a hard time hearing “high-pitched” sounds such as alarms, doorbells, phones
- Noticed a change in hearing
- Have ear pain
- Tinnitus in one or both ears (ringing, buzzing, chirping, etc)
It would be a good idea to have your hearing evaluated by a professional. Many adults have not had there hearing tested since childhood and as a result, many people go years without having proper care or treatment for their hearing loss. It is recommended to have a routine hearing baseline test for every decade of life. If you have an established diagnosis of hearing loss, a hearing test every two years is generally recommended.
It is well known that hearing loss can affect social functioning and quality of life. Furthermore, the negative effects of untreated hearing loss are associated with greater degrees of depression, isolation, loss of income, risk of falls, and cognitive decline.
What does a hearing exam cover?
- A review of your personal and family hearing health history
- Assessment for hearing loss (sensorineural, conductive, or mixed)
- Measurement of middle ear function (tympanometry)
- Further testing and/or referral may be warranted if there are concerns regarding a retrocochlear lesion (e.g., vestibular schwannoma, acoustic neuroma)
- Review of test results and recommendations
If you are having issues with your hearing, contact Eagle Hearing, Idaho's Preferred Audiology and Hearing Aid Clinic.
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