Few people want to accept they're struggling with hearing loss, but the truth is that it's a common issue impacting millions of Americans. Modern technology has created greater access to affordable and effective hearing aids. While you can test hearing at home, doing so is only the first step to getting proper treatment. 

How To Test Hearing at Home

If you do a quick online search for hearing tests, you'll likely see dozens of do-it-yourself options pop up. Online hearing tests generally consist of one or both of the following:

• A series of questions to determine how likely it is that you suffer from hearing loss
• A listening portion where you use headphones and try to identify different noises

These tests are a quick and convenient way to get a better idea of how well you're currently able to hear and if you should be concerned for the future. However, they may not be an effective replacement for professional screening. 

Signs of Hearing Loss

Being able to hear is vital to maintaining your social and mental well-being, which is why it is important to get hearing aids as soon as you begin to experience hearing loss. Recognizing that you or a loved one is having difficulty hearing helps you to take the right course of action to get needed help. While it never hurts to use a free online resource to test your hearing, you should also be aware of the following signs that a professional evaluation is necessary.

• You need to turn up the volume of the TV or music above the comfort level of those around you.
• You often feel embarrassed or frustrated by not being able to hear others.
• Sounds frequently seem muffled or distorted.

The Value of Seeing a Professional To Test Your Hearing

The main concern with testing hearing at home is that online tests will not be able to take the same holistic approach as a professional screening. While an online test may reveal that you have hearing loss of some kind, it will not help identify the affected part of the ear or the extent of the issue.

In some cases, an issue such as injury or blockage within the ear may be causing the hearing loss. The professional evaluation will help determine what kind of treatment you need and give you a better idea of whether it's time to invest in hearing aids or if there is another solution. 

What To Do After You Test Your Hearing

Keep in mind that hearing loss is a symptom of an underlying issue, and simply knowing that your hearing has faded does not identify the root cause. If you suspect your hearing isn't what it once was, test it at home and then see a professional to get to the bottom of the issue. 

If you test your hearing and discover hearing loss, there is a solution that can help preserve strong cognitive function and restore your ability to socialize. At Audien Hearing, we pride ourselves on offering the best affordable hearing aid options. Take a look at our Atom Pro hearing aid and start enjoying a restored world of sound. 

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https://www.consumerreports.org/hearing-ear-care/do-you-need-a-hearing-test/

https://www.audiologyandhearing.com/blog/online-hearing-tests/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hearing-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20373072