Around 13% of people ages 12 and over in the United States have hearing loss, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The symptoms of hearing loss should be taken seriously.
Progressive hearing loss could be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. One visit to an audiologist can restore hearing that you may not have known you lost.
What Are the Signs of Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is sensorineural or conductive. Sensorineural hearing loss results from damage to the auditory nerve or inner ear.
Conductive hearing loss results from some impediment that blocks sound waves from reaching the inner ear. New York hearing center doctors will determine the cause of hearing loss during a hearing test.
Loss of Clarity and Volume
You may have experienced the most common sign of hearing loss — a noticeable loss in the clarity and volume of sound.
Television Volume
It is not uncommon not to notice hearing loss because the progressive loss of hearing can develop slowly. Some people become aware of hearing loss when a family member mentions that the TV volume is too loud.
The same situations can arise when listening to the radio. Often, the best treatment solution is a hearing aid.
Loud Environments
Difficulty discerning speech in loud environments is another sign. The hearing loss may not be noticeable when speaking and listening in a quiet environment. If you or a loved one frequently ask people to speak up during noisy situations, hearing loss may be one factor.
Ringing In the Ear
If a ringing sound persists in your hearing, you may have tinnitus. The condition is fairly common, especially among older adults.
Tinnitus can result from damage to the inner ear. Tinnitus tends to be a progressive condition that requires treatment by an ear doctor.
Word Discernment
One common phrase used by people who have experienced hearing loss is, “I hear fine but have trouble making out the words.” Often, these individuals have experienced hearing loss at a gradual rate. They are unaware of the loss of volume they have experienced.
Phone Conversations
People with hearing loss often have difficulty understanding people on the phone. If you find yourself asking people to speak up or repeat themselves on the phone, you should schedule an appointment with a Manhattan or Brooklyn audiology specialist.
Localized Sound
An inability to localize sound is another sign of hearing loss. If you or a loved one has difficulty discerning where sound is coming from, that could be a sign of hearing loss and the need for a hearing test or hearing aids.
When to See an Audiologist
If you experience any of the symptoms or experiences described above, it’s time to schedule a hearing test in NYC. Hearing loss can lower the quality of life. In some cases, it can even become a safety issue.
An audiologist can have you fitted with custom hearing aids. Trust the audiologists of New York Hearing Center to diagnose and treat your hearing loss before providing you with hearing aids in New York City. Dr. Kathy Feng has more than a decade of professional experience as an ear doctor.
Causes of Hearing Loss and Treatment Options
Hearing loss is often associated with advanced age. Half of the adults over the age of 75 have experienced hearing loss.
Age-related hearing loss can easily be addressed using hearing aids.
Other causes of hearing loss can include:
- Accidents
- Head trauma
- Exposure to excessively loud noise
- Ear wax
- Ear infections
- A ruptured eardrum
- Damage to the cochlea
- Abnormal growths
Our audiology Manhattan- and Brooklyn-based experts can have you fitted with one of three hearing aid options. Qualifications matter. Our best audiologist in NYC, Dr. Kathy Feng, earned a Doctor of Audiology from the University of Florida.
Behind the Ear (BTE)
One common hearing aid design is called Behind the Ear (BTE). These devices sit behind the ear. Patients with small ear canals can benefit from this design.
BTEs are also great options for people who have experienced extensive hearing loss. The electronics are stored behind the ear.
A tube directs sound toward the ear canal. The BTE design is discreet.
In the Ear (ITE)
Patients with mild to severe hearing loss can benefit from the In the Ear (ITE) hearing aids. The devices have a small wire that connects to a tiny sound transmitter placed in the opening of the ear canal.
Receiver In the Ear (RITE)
For people who want a hearing aid housing smaller than the BTE design, a Receiver In the Ear (RITE) model is a great solution. The RITE model transmits sound to the receiver that is placed near the ear canal.
During your hearing test and examination, Dr. Kathy Feng will explain the potential benefits of all three designs. Each hearing aid option comes in custom colors that can match your skin tone.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right hearing aids requires more than a simple internet search. Our valued clientele in Manhattan and Brooklyn trust New York Hearing Center because our team values diversity and high-quality treatment.
How Often Should I Have My Hearing Tested?
Your audiologist will advise you on how often to have your hearing checked. In general, having your hearing tested every few years once you reach the age of 60 is a good idea. Individuals who have been diagnosed with hearing loss generally require hearing exams at more frequent intervals.
Treat Your Hearing Loss Today
How do I find a good audiologist in NYC? By scheduling a consultation with our office. The staff of the New York Hearing Center will connect you with an audiologist in NYC and Brooklyn.
Dr. Kathy Feng is a New York State-licensed Doctor of Audiology. She has more than a decade of experience.
Don’t let hearing loss strain your personal relationships. Call our office today to speak with a member of our team.
