Hearing loss can, unfortunately, come as a surprise—even in those who have suffered with it for years. However, awareness of the symptoms of hearing loss and knowledge of the diagnostic and treatment process can help ensure that you are on track to receiving the best possible care. Learn more about hearing loss, how it can sneak up on you, and how your ear, nose, and throat doctor can help by reading below, and if you are interested in treatment, contact Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeons of Western New England with offices in Springfield, Northampton, and Mary Lane Hospital in Ware, MA.

What is a hearing aid?
A hearing aid is a device which consists of three main elements: a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker. These components work together to take outside sounds, amplify them, and then transmit them directly into the ear. A hearing aid is worn on or in the ear and comes in a variety of styles and types.

Do I need a hearing aid?
Hearing loss often advances slowly over time and many patients do not recognize their hearing problem until it has advanced into its later stages. However, knowing the signs of hearing loss can help you get the help you need early. Some symptoms of hearing loss include:

• Difficulty hearing those around you
• Asking others to repeat themselves often
• Difficulty following conversations, especially on the phone or in crowded environments
• Feeling as though those around you are mumbling
• Others tell you the TV or radio volume is too high, but you think it is reasonable

Diagnosing Hearing Loss
Though your ear, nose, and throat doctor will use a variety of information to diagnose your hearing loss, a hearing test will help them most accurately assess the severity of the loss. During the test, you will wear headphones and listen for sounds played at different frequencies before indicating in which ear the sound was played.

Interested? Call one our locations in Springfield, Northampton, and Ware, MA!
Your doctor can advise you on the best choice of hearing aid for your situation. For more information on hearing aids, please contact Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgeons of Western New England. Call (413) 732-7426 for the Springfield office, (413) 586-2033 to schedule your appointment in Northampton, or (413) 967-2249 for the Mary Lane Hospital location today!