7 things you may not know about hearing loss and audiology care

Despite how precious our sense of hearing is, many people are unaware of the risks their daily activities can have on their hearing.  Not only that, but even more people are unaware as to who they should seek and talk to for advice on hearing loss. If you're unconvinced that preventing hearing loss should be a concern, read on for 7 facts you may not know about hearing loss and audiology care:

1. 34.25 million Americans have hearing loss (MarketTrak VIII).

2. For 24 million hearing-impaired Americans who do not use hearing instruments, the impact of untreated hearing loss is quantified to be in excess of $100 billion annually (CDC).

3. 15% of Americans, or 26 million, between the ages of 20-69 suffer from noise-induced hearing loss--or NIHL (NIDCD website).

4. 100% of NIHL is preventable if individuals understand what to avoid and how to get properly tested.

5. The government authority on deafness and communications disorders (NIDCD) recommends a hearing test by an audiologist if you suspect you may have hearing loss.

6. It is generally more cost-effective for individuals to see an audiologist before other health care providers when they have a hearing health related issues.

7. Audiologists are THE hearing experts: they are specialized, licensed professionals (many are Doctoral level) who complete at least eight years of education and training to learn how to appropriately measure, diagnose, and treat hearing loss.