Hearing loss is a common medical concern that affects millions of people worldwide. If you have recently been diagnosed with hearing loss or suspect that you may have it, it can be overwhelming and worrisome. 

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and scared when you are diagnosed with hearing loss. However, with the right guidance from an audiologist and support from your family and friends, you will see that managing your hearing loss and improving your quality of life is achievable.

What kind of hearing loss do I have?

The primary step in addressing your hearing loss is identifying and understanding the type of hearing loss you have. 

To start, you need to be familiar with the three main types of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed.

Conductive hearing loss occurs from damage to the outer or middle ear structures. As a result, sound waves are unable to reach the inner ear effectively. This form of hearing loss can be attributed to various factors, such as fluid in the middle ear space, ear infections, or a physical blockage in the ear canal. In most cases, conductive hearing loss is temporary and can be treated with medical intervention or hearing aids.

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the most common type of hearing loss, occurring when there is damage to the auditory nerve pathways or the sensory cells of the inner ear. SNHL affects the normal process of how the ears transmit sound to the brain, as the sensory organ of hearing is damaged. This type of hearing loss is typically irreversible and attributed to various factors such as exposure to loud noise, aging, or certain medical conditions. 

Meanwhile, mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. If you are diagnosed with mixed hearing loss, various treatment options may be necessary. This is why it is important to identify the type of hearing loss you have because the treatment or management options are highly dependent on your hearing test results.

Get a hearing test

If you suspect that you are experiencing signs of hearing loss, it is important to get a hearing test. A hearing evaluation will help determine the type and degree of your hearing loss and help your audiologist to develop a personalized treatment plan. 

Since hearing loss usually develops gradually, it is often challenging to notice the changes in your hearing at an early stage. Therefore, regular hearing tests are essential to identify and address any hearing problems promptly.

What happens after a hearing test?

After a hearing test, an audiologist will discuss the results and recommend the best course of action. In certain cases, hearing aids are an appropriate solution for hearing loss. Hearing aids are designed to amplify sound specifically to the individual’s hearing loss and make it easier to hear and understand speech. 

These tiny devices come in different styles, sizes, and technology levels, and an audiologist will help you select the right one for your specific hearing needs.

Why it is important to work with an audiologist

Getting fitted with the right hearing aid is essential for improving your ability to hear and your overall quality of life. A hearing aid that is not fitted correctly can be uncomfortable, ineffective, and render unsatisfactory results. 

Audiologists are trained and skilled to provide personalized care and ensure that your hearing aid is properly fitted and adjusted.

When you are fitted with a new pair of hearing aids, be prepared for an adjustment period. It can take time to get used to the new sounds, and there may be some adjustments needed as your hearing changes over time. Your audiologist will be ready to provide professional support and device adjustments to help you achieve the best possible hearing outcomes.

Audiologists and Hearing Aids in Swampscott and Peabody, Massachusetts

If you suspect that you are experiencing signs of hearing loss, seek professional help right away. Get a hearing test, consult an audiologist, and get fitted with the best devices to improve your hearing and quality of life. 

Remember, you are not alone. There is a whole community of people out there who are successfully managing their hearing loss. With the right support and information, you can rise above hearing loss and enjoy the best life you deserve!

If you need hearing aids or are looking for an audiologist who can expertly check your hearing aids in Massachusetts, contact us at Atlantic Hearing Care.

Our clinics are located in Swampscott and Peabody. We look forward to seeing you in our clinic!