Why Should You See a Hearing Specialist as You Age?
Seeing a hearing doctor near Hershey is essential as you get older and begin to have difficulty hearing or notice it’s more challenging to engage in conversations with others. In some cases, hearing loss may occur due to genetic mutations, underlying conditions, or even trauma (such as a physical injury or exposure to excessively loud sounds). At Moffit & Mesaros ENT, we specialize in providing thorough examinations, hearing tests, aids, and completely individualized solutions for each of our patients.
Hearing Tests, Aids & Personalized Solutions
Anytime you need to see a doctor or an allergist near Hershey, it’s essential to find a provider you can trust. At Moffit & Mesaros ENT, we provide specialized treatment options, tests, and aids that are personalized for your needs. You may require a hearing test if you’re experiencing any type of hearing loss (single or double-sided).
There are three main types of hearing loss, including:
- Conductive: This involves issues that typically pertain to the middle or outer ear.
- Sensorineural: This includes damage to the inner ear (or the pathways directly connected to the brain).
- Mixed: A combination of both conductive and/or sensorineural hearing loss is present with this diagnosis.
Following a comprehensive examination, we’ll review the following treatment options (based on the severity of your hearing loss):
- Hearing Aids: Standard hearing aids are devices designed to amplify sound.
- Cochlear Implants: Cochlear implants for the ear are surgically implanted. They’re designed for individuals with more severe hearing loss.
- CROS Hearing Aids: CROS hearing aids are ideal for single-sided hearing loss, which can be determined with a hearing test while meeting with a doctor at Moffit & Mesaros ENT. Sound is transmitted from the impaired ear to the healthy one with the use of CROS hearing aids.
How Often Should I Get a Hearing Test?
- Adults with No Symptoms: Every 3–5 years if you’re under 50 and not experiencing hearing issues.
- Age 50 and Older: Once every 1–2 years, since age-related hearing loss becomes more common.
- People at Higher Risk: If you’re regularly exposed to loud noises, take ototoxic medications, or have a family history of hearing loss, you may need more frequent testing.
- If You Notice Symptoms: Schedule a hearing test any time you experience signs like difficulty understanding speech, turning up the TV volume often, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
When to See a Hearing Doctor
Whether you need to see an ENT for yourself or you’re seeking a trusted pediatric ENT serving Hershey, PA, we can help. Knowing when to see a hearing doctor to schedule a hearing test is crucial to prevent long-term damage or permanent hearing loss.
Here are some telltale signs it’s time to see a hearing doctor, regardless of your age:
- Constant ringing and/or buzzing in the ear
- Pain in the ear(s)
- Hearing is worse in one ear than the other.
- Changes to your hearing, which can occur gradually or rapidly
- Sudden hearing loss
- Balance problems, which may include vertigo and/or dizziness
- Drainage around the ear without explanation
When you begin experiencing hearing loss or issues with either of your ears, it’s important to take note of your condition and the symptoms you are having. This is vital to help better describe your issue(s) once you begin working with a hearing doctor, such as one from Moffit & Mesaros ENT. Once we have a better understanding of your symptoms and the severity, we’ll coordinate and schedule hearing tests that are optimized for your specific needs.
Schedule Your Hearing Evaluation Today!
Understanding the importance of seeing a professional ENT when you’re experiencing any form of hearing loss is imperative for your protection. From a standard annual examination to comprehensive hearing test solutions, Moffit & Mesaros ENT is here for you every step of the way. To learn more about our services or to schedule a hearing test for yourself, a child, or a loved one near Hershey, contact Moffit & Mesaros ENT today by requesting your appointment and consultation online.
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