Q: I mentioned to my doctor that I was having trouble hearing, but he didn’t seem to think it was a big deal. Should I see an audiologist?

A: I’ve noticed that some primary care physicians downplay the importance of treating hearing loss, since (usually) hearing loss doesn’t kill you. Some of them also underestimate the impact modern hearing aids can have on a person’s quality of life. If you’re having hearing difficulties, you should see an audiologist. An audiologist will thoroughly evaluate your hearing, looking for indications of underlying medical conditions which may be causing your hearing loss. They will also be able to discuss what can be done to improve your hearing. And in many cases, they will give you the opportunity try on actual hearing aids, so you can experience for yourself the difference they can make.

Answered by Dr. Matt Perry, Au.D. – audiologist and owner of Harmony Hearing & Audiology, located in Festival at Bel Air, 5 Bel Air S Pkwy, Ste. 1411, Bel Air, MD 21015 – (410)569-5999