So, if they notice a deterioration in their hearing, a natural response is to ignore it for a while to see if it rectifies. The trouble is that the longer you leave an ear condition, the harder it can be to treat. So always consult a professional about hearing changes.
What is a Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS)?
This is a state-licensed hearing professional who is able to assess common forms of hearing loss and issue hearing aid devices. A HIS can test your hearing and recommend a hearing device. They can also teach you to use the device.
There are various ways you can attend a HIS office for a hearing test. Usually, you are directed to a HIS clinic by your medical professional after an initial diagnosis, but if you already have a hearing device, you might be able to contact the HIS clinic directly and book an appointment.
Your Ears Are Painful
Ear pain can be very stressful. It is usually caused by excess wax buildup in the inner ear, sometimes known as wax compaction. Wax compaction can reduce your ability to hear properly and cause significant discomfort, leading to ear infections.
Visiting a HIS clinic because of ear pain is perfectly valid. A HIS can assess your ear with a variety of hearing tests and decide whether you require a hearing device or an ear treatment. For example, if you are experiencing ear compaction, your HIS might use a device for cleaning.
You Experience Ringing
The experience of ringing in the ears is fairly common, especially if you attend loud events or work in a profession where you are regularly exposed to loud noises. Loud noises damage the cilia in the inner ear that district soundwaves. It can also damage the cochlea causing tinnitus.
Ringing in the ears can be temporary or permanent. However, if you’ve had ringing in your ears for some time that is noticeable and detrimental to your quality of life, it might be time to visit a HIS clinic for an audio exam. A HIS will conduct hearing tests and decide if you need a device.
You Have Hearing Issues
Hearing loss affects people of every age. For example, young people might have congenital issues, while older people are more likely to experience age-related hearing loss. However, hearing can also be damaged by loud noises and traumas – always treat hearing loss seriously.
If you experience uncommon hearing loss or you notice that your hearing has deteriorated over time, you should seek advice from a hearing instrument specialist. The sooner you can respond to your hearing deterioration, the more likely you are to save your natural hearing abilities long-term.
You Have Balance Issues
Balance and hearing are closely related. The inner ear is a complex of canals that use sound to inform movement and orientation in the brain. If you find it difficult to balance, it might be a hearing issue. Visit a HIS clinic and undergo some tests to confirm this or rule it out.
