Professional Hearing Assessments in Toronto and Scarborough
When Was the Last time You Had Your Hearing Tested?
In all aspects of life some things move more quickly, and some things move slower than others. Hearing loss is one thing that is definitely part of the slower moving group. It is so gradual that it’s impossible to recognize the subtle changes that are taking place over time.
Consequently, about 68% of those with a measurable hearing loss wait about seven years before seeking help. While they wait, they put themselves at risk of developing negative mental and physical health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, balance disorders, cognitive decline and more.
The only way to know the truth about your hearing is to have it tested by a hearing expert.
Where can I get a hearing test near me?
Hearing Aid Source conducts hearing tests in our clinics in Toronto and Scarborough. Best of all, they’re quick, painless, provide immediate results and free.
6 Common Causes of Hearing Loss
Aging
Known as presbycusis, age-related hearing loss involves the deterioration of the hair cells in the inner ear. However, hearing challenges can occur when other components along the hearing pathway become compromised as you age.
Ear Trauma
The concussion from an explosion or a blow to your ear or head can cause fractures along the hearing pathway, damaging middle and inner ear components as well as the auditory nerve.
Illnesses and Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes can contribute to a decreased blood supply to your auditory system. Infections that include swelling and the buildup of fluid in the middle ear can also disrupt the process of hearing.
Medications
The medications you take can also cause hearing loss. Known as ototoxic medications, your hearing can become compromised due to the use of certain medications, such as cancer treatment drugs. My Health Alberta provides a list of various classes of ototoxic medications.
Noise Exposure
The second leading cause of hearing loss, first in individuals between ages 17 and 65, is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). NIHL occurs when you are exposed to a single extreme noise event or ongoing noise that damages the hair cells in the inner ear. Fortunately, it is preventable with the use of proper hearing protection.
Earwax
Although it doesn’t seem all that serious, too much earwax, which can become impacted, dampens the intensity of the sound entering your ears, preventing them from reaching the middle and inner ear. Usually temporary, this form of hearing loss can be corrected through professional earwax removal.
You May Have a Hearing Loss If…
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You have to turn up the volume of the TV to levels that are uncomfortable to others.
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Conversations on the phone are difficult to understand.
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You’re constantly asking others to repeat themselves.
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Family, friends and coworkers are complaining and telling you to “get your ears checked.”
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You avoid restaurants, social events and family gatherings because it’s too hard to have a decent conversation because of the noise.
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You laugh at jokes you don’t understand, covering the fact that you didn’t hear them.
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There is a feeling of stuffiness or aural fullness in your ears.
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You’re experiencing a constant ringing, buzzing or hissing sound in your ears (known as tinnitus).
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms of hearing loss, it’s time to take action.
Find the Toronto or Scarborough clinic nearest you for a free hearing test.
What You Can Expect during a Hearing Test at Hearing Aid Source
Case History
At the start of your appointment, we’ll ask you questions related to your hearing and overall health, such as medications you are taking, past surgeries and family history of hearing loss. We’ll also ask about your lifestyle, occupation and recreational activities in order to evaluate your risk of exposure to loud noise as well as understand how active you are.
Physical Examination of Your Ears
Following our discussion, we’ll use an otoscope (a magnifying glass with a tapered end and light at the tip) to examine your ears. We’re looking for any abnormalities, such as growths, inflammation and impacted earwax.
Discussion of Results and Options
During testing, your results will be plotted on a graph called an audiogram, which shows your hearing thresholds at different frequencies. The data helps determine the type and severity of hearing loss or indicates that your hearing is normal.
We’ll walk you through your results, explain what they mean and discuss hearing solutions to help improve your hearing, if necessary.
Early detection and intervention help prevent the negative consequences of hearing loss, such as cognitive decline, social isolation and depression. If you are someone who has a high risk of developing a hearing loss, we’ll also provide recommendations to protect your hearing.
Our Experts Answer
Why Is Hearing Protection Important? Experts from Hearing Aid Source Answer
When Hearing Aids Are Not Enough: The Cochlear Implant Solution
Unveiling the Truth about Earwax: Comparing OTC and Professional Earwax Removal Methods
Schedule Your Free Hearing Test
Because the changes come on at such a slow pace, recognizing that you are experiencing hearing challenges can be difficult. However, with a hearing assessment from a hearing expert, you can know the truth about your hearing and get the help you need.
Both of our clinics in Toronto, ON and Scarborough, ON conduct free hearing tests. Submit the adjacent form to take advantage of this opportunity, and a member of our team will contact you to help schedule an appointment.
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