May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month! This is a great time of year to celebrate the human need for communication, raise awareness of communication disorders and take care of our communication health. At Gulf Coast Audiology, we certainly focus most on the Hearing part of Speech-Language-Hearing, so let’s discuss that aspect of communication and what you can do.
Why Hearing Health Is Important
Communication isn’t just talking; it’s listening, too, and to that end, hearing health is critical to communication. Good communication from good hearing health contributes to stronger relationships, decreased feelings of loneliness—which, in turn, lowers the risk of depression—increased work performance, increased self-confidence and stronger personal independence and security. Which is to say, being able to hear well is good for you.
The Role of Audiologists in National Speech-Language-Hearing Month
If you have hearing loss, your healthcare team should include an audiologist. Audiologists play a pivotal role in diagnosing, managing and treating hearing loss and other ear-related disorders. They use a medical model approach to hearing health care, which ensures potential issues are addressed early and enables effective management strategies and treatments, all of which can significantly improve your quality of life.
Caring for Your Hearing Health with an Audiologist Visit
Hearing loss often comes on gradually, so it’s hard to notice at first. That’s why events like National Speech-Language-Hearing Month are so valuable; they provide a reminder to check in on yourself and your hearing health. If you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms, consider making an appointment with an audiologist:
- Difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy settings
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Sounds seemed muffled
- Turning the volume up on the TV or radio
- Difficulty hearing children, women and other people with high-pitched voices
- Missing background sounds, such as birdsong
At an audiologist appointment, your audiologist can:
- Perform a comprehensive hearing evaluation
- Diagnose hearing loss: type, cause, severity, unilateral or bilateral, etc.
- Create a personalized hearing protection plan
- Provide guidance on hearing aids and devices that suit your needs the best
- Offer counseling for you and your family as you adjust
- Maintain your hearing aids for years to come
Make an Appointment and Spread Awareness
If you have hearing loss, the issue won’t resolve on its own; you need an expert team behind you. If you’ve been hesitant to seek treatment, now is the time to do so. Celebrate National Speech-Language-Hearing Month with us at Gulf Coast Audiology.
Also, take this opportunity to raise awareness among your friends and loved ones about hearing health and speech disorders, and discuss the importance of seeking treatment. If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms of hearing loss listed above in a loved one, gently bring up your concerns and offer your support.