Reviewed by Mr. Ranjeet Kumar
Sr. Audiologist, Speech Therapist & Cochlear Implant Specialist, BASLP on
Did you know nearly 14% of people between the ages of 45 to 64 experience hearing loss? This percentage rises to around 30% for people aged 65 and older. That’s why getting a hearing test every now and then is recommended. The ideal time suggested by doctors for getting tested is every 10 years until the age of 50, and every 3 years after 50. It will give you peace of mind that your ears are in perfect condition.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to learn a few things before you visit the doctor. So, let’s get started!
Why Should You Get Tested?
If a person is having trouble hearing people talk, especially when they are in a crowded place or listening to music or TV at way too high a volume, they are suspected of having a hearing impairment. However, not all signs of this condition are as evident.
Know that hearing loss is a gradual process. So, there are chances that you may have trouble listening, even if you presume that you’re fine. Early detection will ensure that the condition can be improved without extensive damage.
What Are The Causes Of Hearing Loss In Adults?
The commonly reported cause of hearing loss includes:
- Using power tools or mowing the lawn
- Being surrounded by loud noises (often at work)
- Listening to loud music
- Earwax buildup
- Having an infection
- Getting hit on the head
- Genetic hearing loss
- Taking certain medications
Not addressing the issue can affect the condition further and lead to permanent hearing loss. Therefore, you must get tested as soon as possible.
Treatment Options Provided
There are different types of treatment plans available to you depending on the severity and type of damage. The doctor may recommend using hearing aids, providing any medication, or a surgery. They may also suggest you wear ear plugs to protect your ears from loud noise.
However, it is important to know that if the doctor is inexperienced, overworked or the assisted staff is underqualified, the surgery may lead to complications and affect the prevailing condition even more. These types of cases are often subjected to medical malpractice. So, it is the legal right of the patient to get a medical malpractice attorney and justice. The attorney can help find the evidence of malpractice and help you get appropriate financial compensation.
Even so, it would be great if you learned about all the possible complications beforehand. Only go for surgery when you are sure about it.
What To Expect During The Test?
The test generally takes around 30 minutes but might vary depending on the patient’s condition. It is painless and easy. The doctor will provide you with earphones to listen to different pitches and volumes of short tones. Your condition will be determined depending on what sound you can hear and up to what extent (including high-pitched, low-pitched, loud, and quiet) in the left or right ear.
You might also require to hear speech and repeat what is being said. It is often done in a soundproof room, as it helps in accurate diagnosis of the condition.
What Does The Value Of Different Decibels In Hearing Tests Imply?
The results obtained from a hearing test are not about pass or fail. Rather they explain the listening capabilities of both ears. It is measured as the intensity of sound, also known as “decibels.” Normal speech is 60 decibels. On the other hand, when someone whispers in your ear, it is around 30 decibels, and shouting begins from 8 decibels. It could also be broken down into the following pattern:
- Mild loss: 26 to 40 decibels
- Moderate loss: 41 to 55 decibels
- Moderate-to-severe loss: 56 to 70 decibels
- Severe loss: 71 to 90 decibels
- Profound loss: 91 to 100 decibels.
If the loss is moderate to severe or beyond, your doctor may recommend consulting an ear-nose-throat specialist or audiologist for further tests or treatment plans.
Word Of Caution: Neglecting your condition and not getting appropriate treatment can resultin isolation and depression in adults. It is because they might not feel at ease due to the inability to listen properly. They might begin to avoid social gatherings and isolate themselves to avoid embarrassing situations. This will lead to anxiety, stress, or even depression. So, it would be wise to get a hearing test as soon as possible.
To Sum It All Up
Hearing tests are something that many people neglect unless they experience severe pain or face difficulty in listening. However, it is as crucial as other tests and helps keep your ears protected. Notwithstanding, if you experience any damage or complication after surgery, make sure to consult your attorney.