A lot of older Americans (and many younger ones) start to realize that they're missing out on conversations around them or they're having a harder time hearing their televisions. Naturally, the first thing they think about doing is getting a hearing aid.
But, is it really necessary to go through a hearing exam and get a hearing aid that's designed specifically for you? Perhaps you have a relative's old hearing aid just sitting around that you could use. Maybe you've even seen one being sold cheaply somewhere online. Wouldn't that be easier?
In the short run—yes. In the long run—absolutely not. Here's why you need your hearing loss checked professionally and your own hearing aids.
A Professional Hearing Evaluation Can Catch Other Problems
Hearing loss isn't always the product of age. In some cases, hearing loss can result from something as simple as earwax that's gotten packed too tightly in your ears. In other cases, certain medications can interfere with your hearing. A busted eardrum (which can be the result of an untreated infection), may also be causing problems.
You don't want to use a hearing aid to treat the symptoms of a different issue—especially if your hearing problem can be fixed or needs to be treated a different way.
Hearing Aids Are Extremely Personal Medical Devices
Decades ago, hearing aids were pretty much the same, no matter where you got them. Today, hearing aids are complicated medical devices that are electronically calibrated to your precise hearing problems. Most of them are also molded to fit specifically to your ear.
If you wear someone else's old hearing aid or buy a device online that isn't properly adjusted to your needs, it won't be as effective. It can also cause irritation in your ear canal and be uncomfortable to wear for any length of time.
Not Properly Addressing Your Hearing Loss Can Lead To Other Issues
Does it tire you out trying to hear people talking? Do you end up feeling exhausted after struggling to make out what is being said on the television? Over enough time, the problems caused by improper treatment of your hearing loss can actually lead to health issues like stress, fatigue, and dementia. In essence, the struggle to hear can actually cause damage to your brain over time.
If you've been delaying an appointment with an audiologist or other professional to evaluate your hearing loss and talk about a hearing aid, it's time to take the plunge. Don't rely on a second-hand unit or something that isn't personalized for you just because it's free or cheap. Take care of your hearing the right way.