How Often Should You Get a Hearing Test?
Posted by Casandra Lee in Hearing Aid Lifestyle
Most people are accustomed to having routine medical checkups. A physical from your doctor, tooth cleaning from your dentist, and vision exam from your optometrist are all commonplace. But what about hearing tests? Screenings for newborns and school-aged children are typical, but few adults give their hearing as much thought as their teeth, eyes, and overall health.
The purpose of a hearing test is to determine if you have hearing loss, as well as the severity of your case. Defining the type of hearing loss you have (conductive, sensorineural, or mixed) also helps your audiologist recommend the proper treatment, such as medical intervention or hearing aids. It’s often difficult to notice the initial signs of hearing loss, so routine hearing evaluations are important to catch the problem early.
How often you should get a hearing test depends on several factors. Consider what applies to you to help you decide if now is the right time to have your hearing evaluated.
Hearing Status
You have no known hearing loss: Have your hearing screened every three to five years.
You or a loved one is worried about your hearing: Do you frequently ask people to repeat themselves? Does the TV volume seem low to you but no one else? Is it hard to understand people over the phone? Schedule a hearing test as soon as you can. The sooner you act, the more treatment options you’ll have.
Prior testing has already confirmed hearing loss: Get retested anytime you notice a change in how well you hear. You should also have your hearing aids checked at least once a year.
Age
You are 18 to 40 years old: As long as you have no noticeable hearing loss, get your hearing screened every three to five years. However, be aware that some medications and health conditions, such as otosclerosis, can lead to hearing loss in young and middle-aged adults.
You are over age 60: Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, affects 33 percent of 65-year-olds and 50 percent of 75-year-olds. For this reason, annual hearing tests are recommended starting at age 60.
Exposure to Loud Noises
You are not regularly exposed to loud noises: Unless you have another reason to worry about hearing loss, have your hearing screened every three to five years.
You work in a high-noise occupation: Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the second most common form of sensorineural hearing deficit. Get a hearing test once a year if you are regularly exposed to sounds louder than 85 decibels.
At Elite Hearing Centers of America, we are equipped with the latest hearing test technology. Our audiologists are also trained to provide the most accurate, professional, and thorough hearing evaluations. Best of all, we test your hearing absolutely free of charge! Expect the highest quality service and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To schedule your free hearing test and consultation, please call us at 855-432-7354 or contact us online today. You’ll be glad you did!