If you’ve recognized the signs of hearing loss and scheduled an appointment with an audiologist for a hearing test, you probably have a lot of questions about what a hearing loss diagnosis could mean for you. To help you prepare for this important appointment, we’ve compiled a list of questions you should ask you audiologist in order to better understand your hearing loss.
What Type of Hearing Loss Do I Have?
There are three types of hearing loss:
- Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ears, specifically the tiny hair cells that convert soundwaves into electrical energy or the nerve that transmits this energy to the brain. This type of hearing loss is permanent.
- Conductive hearing loss is caused by an obstruction in the outer or middle ear that prevents soundwaves from traveling through. Potential causes of conductive hearing loss include earwax, middle ear infection or a congenital abnormality.
- Mixed hearing loss is a combination of sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss.
Is My Hearing Loss the Same in Both Ears?
Just like your feet probably aren’t the exact same size, your hearing loss probably isn’t identical in both ears, either. In fact, research out of the University of California has found that the left and right ears hear differently from one another. The left ear excels at receiving information from music, emotion and intuition, and the right ear is better at processing speech and logic.
Do I Need Hearing Aids for Both Ears?
Even if your hearing is much better in one ear than the other, if you have at least a mild hearing loss in both ears, your provider will likely prescribe two hearing aids. This is because the brain is better at processing sound when it comes in evenly from both ears.
Which Hearing Aid Is Best for Me?
Your audiologist will take into account not just your hearing abilities, but also your lifestyle needs, when it comes to selecting a hearing aid. If you find yourself in lots of demanding listening environments, like conferences at Los Angeles Convention Center, you’ll need higher-tier technology than someone who spends most days at home. For more information or to schedule an appointment for a hearing test, call The House Institute today.