If you have hearing loss, you’ve probably heard some things that aren’t exactly true. Some of these things are myths about hearing loss, but others are just general misconceptions about the condition. These ideas may make it seem like a hassle or something to be ashamed of, but they aren’t the whole story. In reality, there are many benefits to having hearing aids and working with an audiologist. If you’re struggling with hearing loss, here is some advice from hearing experts at NH Hearing Institute on what you should know about hearing loss as well as tips on how to manage it best.

What is hearing loss?

Hearing loss is when you experience a reduction in the ability to hear. There are many types of hearing loss, but the most common ones are age-related hearing loss (or presbycusis), noise-induced hearing loss, and sensorineural hearing loss. Age-related hearing loss is often caused by the natural aging process, but it can also be caused by excessive noise exposure or certain health conditions. Noise-induced hearing loss happens when you are exposed to loud noises over a long period of time, like at work or while attending concerts or sporting events. Sensorineural hearing loss happens when the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve is damaged. There are many causes of these types of hearing loss, but no matter why you have hearing loss, the symptoms are often the same.

How do hearing aids help?

With hearing aids, you are able to amplify sound that is too soft for your ears to pick up on. Hearing aids can help you hear better in different situations, including in social situations, at work, and even while driving. It’s important to remember that hearing aids don’t make up for the fact that you have hearing loss, but they can make it easier for you to function in daily life. If you’re experiencing hearing loss, it’s important to work with an audiologist to find the right fit for you. They will make sure that you pick out the right model and that it’s adjusted to your specific needs. The audiologist will also teach you how to use your hearing aids correctly so that you get the most out of having them.

Hearing loss in children

Hearing loss in children is fairly common, especially among those who are born prematurely or have an underlying health condition, like an infection or hyperbilirubinemia. If you have a child under three years old and they are showing signs of hearing loss, it’s important to have them tested. There are many ways that you can get a hearing test for your child, including visiting their doctor, using a smartphone app, or using a computer program. If your child has been diagnosed with hearing loss, you will work with an audiologist to find the best way to treat the condition. Most kids with hearing loss get hearing aids. Most hearing aids are made for children around the age of five years old or younger. Getting your child fitted for hearing aids as early as possible is recommended as it helps them get used to wearing them early on.

Hearing aid fitting and adjustments

When you first get hearing aids, they will be adjusted to a certain level to make sure they are fitting properly and that you are getting the right sound. For the first few weeks after you receive them, you’ll come back to the audiologist to make sure everything is fitting properly. The audiologist will also make adjustments to make sure the hearing aids are giving you the best sound. After a couple of weeks, you will go back every six to eight weeks to check in and make sure the hearing aids are still fitting properly. You should also check the batteries every few months to make sure they’re working and that you don’t have any issues with them.

What is cochlear implant surgery?

Cochlear implant surgery is a surgical procedure in which a device called a cochlear implant is surgically implanted into the inner ear. Cochlear implants have been around for quite some time and are used to treat severe to profound hearing loss. This device allows a person to hear sound through electrical stimulation of their nerve endings that are normally used for hearing. Cochlear implant surgery is a major procedure and is often recommended for those who have a profound hearing loss and are not able to benefit from hearing aids.

Hidden benefits of hearing loss

Having a hearing loss can be frustrating, but it also has some major benefits. Some people with hearing loss report having increased creativity, while others say they feel a greater sense of empathy. Some also find that they are better able to focus on one thing at a time, which can help with work and school. Many with hearing loss also report having stronger relationships with others, since they are better able to communicate. Many with hearing loss also report having stronger relationships with others, since they are better able to communicate. Additionally, many people with hearing loss find that they are more in tune with their surroundings, as they have to pay more attention to what other people are saying.

Final thoughts

Hearing loss can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to slow you down. If you have hearing loss, you can work with an audiologist to get hearing aids that will help amplify the sounds around you. It’s important to remember that hearing aids don’t make up for the fact that you have hearing loss, but they can make it easier for you to function in daily life.