HEARING LOSS
We are a family-owned practice here for all of your
hearing needs.
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is a partial or total inability to hear sound in one or both ears. Hearing loss is incredibly common, affecting over 48 million Americans to some degree. Hearing loss is measured as mild, moderate, moderately severe, severe, and profound. Those who have hearing loss can still hear sounds, they just lack the clarity to understand certain words and syllables. Depending on the severity of your hearing loss, you may experience a decline in your speech comprehension the longer your hearing loss is left untreated. This is because hearing loss makes it difficult for the brain to process information, making the brain work harder just to understand a conversation. This can result in you missing certain words and over time forgetting parts of speech.
Hearing loss can affect anyone of any age, not only “older people.” Even children can have hearing loss. If you have hearing loss, it’s important to come see us at Active Ear as soon as possible. The longer you wait to treat your hearing loss the worse it can progress and the harder it can be to adjust to hearing again.
Signs of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss often occurs gradually, over the course of a few years. It might be difficult for you to even tell that you have a hearing loss because your brain has adjusted to not hearing certain sounds. Often times, a close friend or family member is the first to notice a hearing loss. If someone you love has suggested you have your hearing tested, then you most likely have some degree of hearing loss. Below are some additional signs of hearing loss to look out for.
- It seems like the people in your life mumble
- It’s difficult to hear when there is background noise present
- You turn the TV volume up louder than other people
- You frequently ask people to repeat themselves
- You avoid social settings because you can’t understand what is being said
If you’ve experienced any of the above, then you may have hearing loss. The first step to better hearing is to schedule an appointment. We are a no pressure office and will make you feel comfortable throughout the hearing evaluation. Don’t let hearing loss prevent you from living your life, call us today to schedule an appointment.
Hearing and Your Health
Your hearing is connected to your overall health and well-being. When your hearing loss goes untreated, then you can experience other health problems as a result. Sometimes hearing loss can be the result of another underlying health condition such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. It’s important to have your hearing checked regularly if you are over the age of 60. In addition, you should also see your primary physician for annual check-ups to ensure you are healthy.
Hearing doesn’t only involve your ears. In order to hear and process sounds, sound must reach the auditory cortex of the brain. The brain is how we process and make meaning of sounds, not through the ears. When you have hearing loss, your brain doesn’t receive the necessary exercise and stimulation it needs to remain active and healthy. It’s important to manage your hearing loss at the first signs so your brain can remain healthy. Being proactive about your hearing health can prevent feelings of fatigue, cognitive decline, and even dementia. If you suspect you have hearing loss, then call us today.
OUR OFFICE
1173 S Washburn Street
Suite G
Oshkosh, WI 54904
(920) 333-1080
Monday-Friday: 9AM-5PM
