Determining whether you have hearing loss and its extent is a major first step in your hearing health journey, but it can be daunting to start. If you know you need to get your hearing tested and have been hesitating, let’s discuss why now, the rainy winter, is the perfect time.
How the Rainy Season Can Affect Hearing Health
Rainy winter conditions can affect your hearing health in more ways than you may realize, albeit very subtly. Here are some ways it might do this:
- Excess moisture can lead to increased earwax production, which can cause impacted earwax, which is known to cause hearing loss.
- Slowed blood circulation in the colder temperatures can impact the cochlea and damage the delicate sensory cells that make hearing possible.
- Damp conditions can cause ear infections.
- Viral illnesses spread during cold, wet months, a number of which can cause hearing loss or ear infections.
- Changes in barometric pressure can create an imbalance of pressure in the ears, which are highly sensitive to changes in pressure.
Signs It Might Be Time for a Hearing Test
Many people notice the symptoms of hearing loss, but wait years to schedule a hearing test and start treatment. Don’t fall into this trap; untreated hearing loss can cost you healthy relationships, mental health, independence and physical safety. Here are some signs you shouldn’t ignore:
- Asking people to repeat themselves
- Pretending to hear when you didn’t
- Having a hard time hearing in noisy environments
- Turning the volume up on the TV or on your phone
- Avoiding social situations to avoid embarrassment
- Feeling tired after situations involving lots of listening
- It’s been a long time since your last test
Why the Rainy Months Are a Smart Time to Schedule a Hearing Test
There’s an old adage: “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” The same sentiment is true for hearing tests. The best time to get a hearing test is when you first notice symptoms, but the second-best time is now.
The rainy months are also ideal for making an appointment because your schedule is often more open during this time of year. The holiday whirlwind is over, and the active spring months are still far away. Take advantage of this lull in activity and make an appointment.
If you’re ready to take the first step, call us today to make an appointment. Our friendly front office staff will be happy to get you on the calendar.