Common Myths About Hearing Tests Debunked

Many individuals may not have had a hearing test before. As a result, there may be misconceptions as to who it is targeted for and what a hearing test involves. By speaking with an audiologist they will be able to debunk common myths about hearing tests.

Myth 1: Only Older People Need to Take Hearing Tests

If you’re over 65, it’s recommended that you schedule regular hearing tests, as this is when most people experience hearing loss. However, hearing loss can happen at any age, and as a result hearing tests are not just for older adults. It’s recommended that younger adults still get a hearing test at least every 10 years. If you work in a noisy environment like a construction site or a busy restaurant, it could be particularly important to get your hearing checked periodically. And of course, young kids should get their ears checked to test for genetic hearing problems.

Myth 2: Hearing Tests Aren’t Necessary Until You Notice Hearing Loss

Many individuals think they’ll notice immediately when they’re hearing starts going. However, it can be a gradual process, and so many individuals don’t pick up on it until their hearing has declined. This could result in you missing out on sounds for years without realizing – that could affect everything from how music sounds to your general alertness to hazards. Regular hearing tests can help to detect hearing loss early. This can allow you to get a hearing aid early and help in preventing further hearing loss.

Myth 3: Hearing Tests Are Uncomfortable and Invasive

Just like eye tests, hearing tests are noninvasive and fairly straightforward examinations. You wear a pair of headphones through which you’ll hear a series of sounds. You then press a button whenever you hear a sound. This determines which frequencies you are able to hear and at which volumes. Another part of the test may involve words being played at a low volume which you must repeat back. This will all be explained to you by an audiologist.

Myth 4: Hearing Tests Have to Be Carried Out at a Clinic

Online hearing tests offers the convenience of conducting a hearing assessment right from the comfort of your home. Simply ensure you perform the test in a quiet room while using high-quality headphones. While audiologists may prefer in-clinic assessments, opting for a home hearing test becomes a viable alternative when an in-person visit is not feasible. This option provides a practical solution for those unable to visit a clinic, ensuring that monitoring your hearing health remains accessible and convenient. Online hearing test may not provide the same results as a hearing test with an audiologist.

Myth 5: Hearing Tests Can Detect All Hearing Loss

In most cases, a hearing test can pick up on hearing loss and a hearing aid can be prescribed to treat it. However, there are some cases of hidden hearing loss that cannot be picked up using a regular hearing test. This is when the brain is responsible for hearing loss and not the ears. Most hearing loss originates in the ears and is therefore identifiable using a hearing test.

If you want to learn more about hearing loss or the different treatment options that are recommend like hearing aids, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.