When you first discover that you are experiencing hearing loss, it can be a bit jarring. You may find that your communication skills and relationships are not what they used to be. You might find yourself isolating yourself from loved ones and avoiding social gatherings because hearing has become a challenge.

Dr. Nikki, a hearing specialist in Omaha, is here to offer advice and steps you can take that will lead to better hearing.

1. Make an appointment with an audiologist

The first step will give you accurate information about the type of hearing loss and the severity of your hearing loss. This is important so we can give you the best options for treatment for your ears. When you make an appointment with a hearing specialist in Omaha like Dr. Nikki, she will perform a hearing test that will measure your sensitivity to hearing across a whole range of speech. She will talk to you about when you started to notice symptoms and get your opinion on what you believe is happening. Once she has gathered all of the facts she will recommend the best hearing solutions designed specifically for you.

2. Educate yourself

Sometimes, the news of hearing loss can cause fear of the unknown. What happens next? Research and education is the best way to arm yourself against these fears. You can learn that you are not alone, and hearing loss affects 1.5 billion people around the world! Plus, then you can know the ins and outs of your particular type of hearing loss and what is considered normal.

3. Be honest

Being honest with your doctors, loved ones, and yourself is a very important step on the journey to better hearing. Your provider will need your honest feedback in order to adjust and tailor hearing solutions to you. This will result in the best possible solution that works and can help you to hear. Being honest with your friends and family can also help improve your communications with them. They can support you and help you on your journey.

4. Don’t be afraid to make changes

While a hearing solution may work in a quiet and controlled environment, it may not work as well for you in real life. If one solution fails you, do not be afraid to try another. Try and notice subtle improvements and what does work for you. You can write down certain situations and events that make it harder for you to hear and a hearing specialist in Omaha like Dr. Nikki can troubleshoot and make the needed changes.

5. Be patient and practice

Your hearing loss may muffle sounds or mute out certain noises completely, but with the use of a hearing solution like a hearing aid, that will quickly change. It may be overwhelming at first, but with patience and practice, you can familiarize yourself with the full range of sounds once again. Give yourself time to adjust to new sensory impressions and be gradual with your approach. Be prepared to make follow-ups with your doctor and keep the lines of communication open.

Contact us

If you are ready to take the steps to better hearing, contact the best hearing specialist in Omaha, Dr. Nikki! You can make an appointment with her and start the process with a hearing test. Just contact us to get started!