Hearing Loss Q & A

So often we take for granted the sounds around us: the chirp of a bird, the telephone ringing, a child's first words. It's only when we can no longer hear the sounds of daily living that we realize how important our sense of hearing really is.

Hearing loss affects over 466 million people globally. If you suspect you may be experiencing hearing loss, it's essential to take the first steps towards seeking diagnosis and treatment.

Q: What are the first steps if I suspect hearing loss?

A: Discovering you might be experiencing hearing loss can feel overwhelming, but rest assured, there are clear and helpful steps you can take to address it.

If you suspect that you, a family member or a friend has a hearing loss, ask these questions:

• Do you complain that people mumble or speak too softly?
• Do you often ask others to repeat what they've said?
• Do you play the TV or radio louder than others would prefer?
• Do you find that watching others as they speak makes it easier to understand what was said?
• Do you find it difficult to hear conversation in a large group?
• Do you hear others talking but misunderstand what was said?
• Do you often feel left out of a conversation or miss so much that you wish you had stayed home?
• Do you frequently hear ringing, buzzing or roaring sound in your ears?
• Do you hear better with one ear than the other?

"If you've answered yes to several of these questions, you should first reach out to your primary care physician to share your concerns," says Jessica Bell, AuD, FAAA.

They will likely refer you to an audiologist, a specialist who will conduct a comprehensive hearing evaluation. This crucial step will help in identifying the specific type and severity of your hearing loss, which is essential in crafting a tailored treatment plan.

Seeking help early can make a significant difference in managing hearing loss effectively. Taking these initial steps is not just about treatment; it's about taking control of your situation and making informed decisions for your health and well-being.

Q: What are the benefits of hearing with both ears?

A: There's no denying that experiencing the world with binaural hearing (hearing with both ears) can dramatically enhance your day-to-day life. You'll experience:

• Directional hearing: One of the most significant advantages is the ability to pinpoint where sounds are coming from. This skill is crucial not just for everyday convenience, like locating your ringing phone, but also for safety reasons, such as determining the direction of an approaching vehicle.
• Clarity in conversation: Engaging in conversations, especially in environments with a lot of background noise, becomes much easier with binaural hearing. Your brain can process sounds more efficiently, allowing you to distinguish speech from noise.
• A richer sound experience: Listening to music or enjoying the serene sounds of nature? Hearing with both ears provides a fuller, more immersive experience. It's the difference between hearing the world in mono and appreciating the full depth of stereo sound.
• Less strain, more gain: When you can hear well with both ears, there's less strain on your brain to interpret sounds, which means listening becomes less exhausting and more enjoyable, even at the end of a long day.

Q: Are there lifestyle changes that can minimize hearing loss?

A: Adopting a few key lifestyle adjustments can significantly assist in managing hearing loss, ensuring that you continue to engage actively in your world. Here's what you can do:

• Mind your environment: Adjust the settings in your living and working spaces to be more hearing friendly. This could involve minimizing echo by adding rugs or curtains and positioning yourself strategically in social settings to optimize hearing.
• Stay informed and prepared: Educate yourself about your hearing loss. Understanding its nuances allows you to anticipate and prepare for challenging listening situations.
• Embrace technology: Beyond hearing aids, numerous apps and devices are designed to support those with hearing loss. Explore apps that offer real-time captioning or devices that enhance the TV watching experience.
• Healthy hearing habits: Protect the hearing you have by avoiding exposure to loud noises when possible and wearing ear protection in noisy environments. Also, maintaining overall health supports hearing health, so regular exercise and a healthy diet are beneficial.
• Communication techniques: Practice effective communication strategies, such as being upfront with others about your hearing needs and preferring visual cues or lip-reading to complement auditory information.

"By integrating these changes into your daily life, you can navigate the world with more confidence and less frustration despite hearing loss" says Jessica.

Q: How can I improve my communication skills with hearing aids?

A: Improving your communication skills with hearing aids involves a blend of practice, patience and utilizing supportive strategies. Here's how you can make the adjustment smoother and enhance your communication:

• Familiarize yourself with your hearing aids: According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, only 1 in 5 people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually uses one. Spend time in various settings to understand how your hearing aids work. From quiet places to bustling environments, this practice will help you adapt to how sounds are amplified.
• Open communication: Let your friends and family know about your hearing loss. This openness encourages them to be mindful of how they can communicate with you effectively, like facing you when speaking or reducing background noise during conversations.
• Utilize technology: Explore assistive listening devices that can complement your hearing aids. Tools like amplified phones or apps that transcribe speech in real time can bridge any gaps in communication.
• Adjustment period: Remember, it's normal for there to be an adjustment period as you and those around you get used to the hearing aids. Encourage regular check-ins with your audiologist to fine-tune settings and discuss any concerns.
• Practice active listening: Focus on the speaker, observe their body language and if needed, politely ask for repetition or clarification. This active engagement not only improves comprehension but also enhances the interaction for both parties.

By incorporating these strategies, you're setting the stage for a more positive and confident communication experience with your hearing aids.

Q: Where can I find support and resources for hearing loss?

A: Finding support and navigating through the wealth of resources available for hearing loss can significantly enhance your journey to better hearing health.

"Look into joining local or online support groups where you can share experiences and tips with others facing similar challenges," says Jessica.

Additionally, explore websites and organizations dedicated to hearing loss, such as Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) Delaware County Chapter and National Institute on Aging. They can often provide educational materials, updates on the latest technology and details on rights and advocacy. Don't forget to tap into the expertise of your audiologist as well. They can recommend specific resources tailored to your needs, from assistive devices to communication strategies.

Connecting with these resources can empower you with knowledge and support, making the path forward clearer and more manageable.

Next steps:

Make an appointment with Jessica Bell, AuD, FAAA
Learn more about Main Line Health's Audiology and Hearing Aid Center
Top tips for hearing clearly in crowded party settings