An audiogram is a chart or graph you receive after a hearing test that plots your hearing thresholds across various frequencies. Paired with a full audiological evaluation, audiograms are a powerful tool used to determine the cause of your hearing loss and help your providers identify the best treatments.
If you have hearing loss, you will need to get your hearing re-tested occasionally to make sure your hearing aids are best meeting your current needs. Let’s take a look at a few factors that can help you determine if you need a new audiogram.
Changes in Health
If your health has changed in the last few years, it may be wise to schedule a hearing test. Conditions like heart disease and diabetes can affect the blood vessels that travel to your inner ear and potentially cause damage that could worsen your hearing. There are also certain medications that can cause or worsen hearing loss as well. Let your audiologist know about any significant changes in your health to see if they recommend coming in for an evaluation.
Different Work or Living Environments
Your hearing needs can change based on your current work and/or living environment. For example, if you went from working at home to a louder office environment, you may need stronger amplification from your hearing aids. Similarly, if you’ve moved to a louder home or had more people move in with you, you might need a more powerful device.
Your Hearing Aid Technology Is Outdated
Hearing aid technology is continuing to advance. If your device is more than five years old, it probably lacks many of the capabilities of newer models. New hearing aids can help you connect to other technology, suppress unwanted noise and adjust automatically to different listening environments. All of these features make it easier for you to navigate the world and hear your best.
Your Hearing Has Worsened
It’s normal for hearing loss to change over time. If you’ve noticed that you’re struggling to follow conversations when on the phone with your grandchildren or during a fitness class at YMCA of Greater Omaha, it’s time to get a new audiogram. There may be a problem with your hearing aids, or you might just need a different device that better meets your current hearing needs.
For additional questions or to schedule an appointment for a hearing test, call Ear Specialists of Omaha & Bellevue today.