Hearing loss is one of the most common growing health concerns among Singaporeans. This hearing problem has been largely associated with ageing. Today, even young people are not spared. People under 50 have started facing this problem due to lifestyle choices and environmental factors. Excess strain on the auditory system is the main culprit. What warning signs should you look for? When should you visit an ENT specialist? Let’s explore all these areas for a better understanding.
Early signs of hearing problems (hearing impairment)
Sometimes, the clues are hidden in our daily activities or conversations. If you frequently ask others to repeat themselves, even during direct conversations, it may be a sign that something is wrong. Or have you recently started turning up the volume on your music system or TV too loud? It also signals a hearing issue. Ignoring these indicators can be a mistake. If left unaddressed, a hearing problem can make outings to restaurants and other social events challenging. Likewise, you should pay attention to the persistent clicking, hissing, ringing, or buzzing sounds in the ear. Hearing damage can lead to these unwanted phantom noises. Some people feel tremendous pressure or fullness in their ears. These symptoms can also accompany hearing loss due to a problem in the Eustachian tube or middle ear. Can you identify with any of these scenarios? Visit earnosethroat.com.sg now.
The right time to see an ENT specialist
Your ears give you persistent warnings about their condition. Please don’t ignore them. Instead, fix an appointment at a credible ENT clinic for proper diagnosis and treatment. Are you wondering when to take this step before things get out of hand? Often, people hesitate to see an ENT doctor because of embarrassment. They want to be sure there is a valid reason to visit the clinic. Even if it’s just a mental block, pay attention to how you feel about your ear health and schedule an appointment. Suppose you experience hearing difficulties only occasionally. It should not bother you much. But you must go for a proper diagnosis if your hearing problem continues for several weeks.
Medical emergencies, such as sudden hearing loss, can also happen. Multiple factors can lead to this. If you seek immediate help, it can be treated. Other signs you must not overlook include ear pain, balance issues, and dizziness. It can be caused by a complex medical condition, which should be diagnosed at the earliest. Sinusitis and frequent ear infections also require periodic checkups. Additionally, you should visit an ENT clinic without delay if you live in a noisy environment where your ears are exposed to noise pollution. You want to protect your auditory health before any damage happens.
Additional information
No matter the underlying cause of your hearing problem, an ENT specialist will ask you about your medical history, past ear issues, noise exposure, medicines, etc. You also need to tell them about your symptoms. After gathering some basic information, the doctor will check your eardrum and ear canal for earwax, infection, or other abnormalities. You need to undergo a hearing test. Based on your symptoms and the results, the doctor can suggest a proper treatment plan.
A hearing problem can affect your personal and social life. Your overall health can also deteriorate. That’s why it’s important to get your ears checked before things get out of hand.