Audiologists Speak Up for Hearing Health

Since 1927, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has recognized May as “Better Hearing and Speech Month.”  

Audiologists say next month is a good time to determine whether you are one of the estimated 28 million Americans who have a treatable hearing loss.

You may have a hearing loss if you:

• Frequently ask people to repeat themselves.
• Often turn your ear toward a sound to hear it better.
• Understand people better when you wear your glasses or look directly at their faces.
• Lose your place in group conversations.
• Keep the volume on your radio or TV at a level that others say is too loud.
• Have a pain or ringing in your ears.

“If these statements relate to your situation, you should see an audiologist for a hearing test,” said Dr. Lee Wilson, head of audiology services for the Callier Center for Communication Disorders at The University of Texas at Dallas.

“Even a very slight hearing loss can have an impact on your daily life, and hearing loss is treatable,” said Wilson.

Wilson says annual hearing checkups are a good idea for people age 45 or older.

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