A sudden loss of hearing is often noticeable right away, whether it’s caused by trauma or exposure to a loud noise. However, hearing loss isn’t always immediate; it often develops gradually over time. Because this slow progression can be harder to detect, it’s essential to act promptly when you start noticing changes. Scheduling a hearing test and consulting with a hearing instrument specialist (HIS) is an important step in understanding and addressing your hearing concerns. Here are four signs you should see a hearing instrument specialist.

1. Turning Up the Volume

Another sign that it might be time to visit a hearing instrument specialist is if you find yourself frequently increasing the volume on your television, radio, or phone. This could indicate an underlying issue with your hearing that shouldn’t be ignored. Listening at higher volumes can put additional strain on your hearing and may lead to further damage over time. A hearing instrument specialist can evaluate your hearing and recommend devices, like hearing aids or other assistive tools, to help you hear more effectively at normal volume levels. This can reduce the need to rely on high settings and support better long-term hearing health.

2. Difficulty Hearing High-Pitched Sounds

Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, like the voices of children or birds chirping, can be an early indicator of hearing loss. This issue often occurs because the ability to detect higher frequencies is usually the first to decline with age or prolonged exposure to loud noise. If you notice that these sounds are becoming faint or difficult to discern, it may be time to see a hearing instrument specialist. They can evaluate your hearing and determine whether hearing aids or other solutions could help improve your ability to hear these frequencies. Addressing this issue early can prevent further challenges and enhance your overall hearing experience.

3. Help Choose the Right Hearing Aids for You

After completing your hearing evaluation, a hearing health professional will help you select hearing aids that match your specific severity of hearing loss. There are various styles and features available, like noise reduction technology and Bluetooth connectivity, which cater to different needs and preferences. Your hearing instrument specialist will explain how these devices work and discuss which options might suit your lifestyle and hearing requirements. This collaborative process ensures you make an informed decision about the hearing aids that will be most effective for you.

4. Fitting Tailoring and Adjusting

After selecting the right hearing aids, ensuring they fit properly is the next step. A hearing instrument specialist will make sure your devices are secure and comfortable in your ears. Properly fitted hearing aids not only enhance comfort but also improve their overall performance. Poorly fitting devices can cause discomfort and may not function as effectively, reducing their ability to support your hearing needs.

If you have a difficulty hearing high pitches sounds or have noticed yourself turning up the volume on the TV, it might be time to schedule an appointment with a hearing instrument specialist. They will be able to help you choose and fit the right hearing aids for you.